[Transaxillary concealing single incision endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy in the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis: a novel surgical approach].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cosmetic effect and safety of transaxillary concealing single incision endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy in the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis (PH). METHODS: Retrospective study was conducted for 326 PH cases undergoing transaxillary concealing single incision endoscopic thoracic bilateral sympathectomy during January 2009 and March 2011. RESULTS: All operations were successfully performed without severe complication and mortality. No conversion into open technique was necessary. The mean unilateral operative duration was 5.8 (5-8) min. It was calculated from the time of skin incision to the application of dressing over wound. The mean follow-up period was 25 (8-38) months. All patients achieved excellent cosmetic effects with undetectable incision. CONCLUSION: Transaxillary concealing single incision endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is a safe and effective procedure for treating primary PH. Incision is undetectable with excellent cosmetic effect. It is worthy of wider popularization.