Outcomes analysis of T4 sympathicotomy in the treatment of primary palmar hyperhidrosis

Objective To analysis the outcome of T4 sympathicatomy in the trealment of primary palmar hypeihidrosis. Methods From September 2004 to February 2008, eighty patients with primary palmar hyperhidrosis, including 45 males and 35 females with average age of 17.1 years, underwent T4 sympathicotomy, in which the sympathetic chains were transected at the level of the forth ribs. Results The procedures were successful. There were no severe intro-and post-operative complications or and mortality. Post-operative complications included mild pneumothorax in two patients and pneumoderma, in six patients. A mean follow-up of was 16.5 months(6-29 months) and the symptom ofshowed palmar sweating was improved in all patients relieved in their palmar sweating, with effective rate of 100%. 46 patients(57.5% )resulted inhad mild moisture hand of but not influence to the daily life, and 4 patients(5%)got developed partial remission. Compensatory sweating occurred in 31 patients(38.8% ), but only 2 cases(2.5% ) complained with this side effect. Over-dry hands occunrred in 1 case(1.25% ). 95% of patients were or satisfied with the outcome of the operation. 5% patients were partially satified. The rate of very rate was much higher in patients with mild moisture hands than patients with dry hands (73.9% vs33.3%, P<0.01).Conclusion T4 sympathicotomy is a simplified method with little side effect and higher satisfactory rate. It should be recommended for the treatment of primary palmar hyperhidrosis. Key words: Hypethidrosis; Hand; Sympathectomy; Thoracoscopy; Thoracic surgery,video-assisted; Treatment outccme