Primer Hyperhidrosis: Thoracoscopic Thoracal sympathectomy

Objective: Primary hyperhidrosis is a medical disorder that causes increased sweat gland activity, leading to discolouration and sweating. Both genders are equally affected, and symptoms often appear between the ages of 14 and 25. It may be axillary, palmar, plantar, or widespread. Patients frequently avoid social engagements, and their work lives can be disturbed. Many treatment methods have been tried, but sympathectomy, a surgical procedure, is the most effective one. Sympathectomy is a surgical operation that involves cutting or clamping the sympathetic nerve. In this study, we wanted to share our experience with sympathectomy. Method: Between January 2024 and January 2025, a total of 32 patients came to our outpatient clinic with excessive perspiration. Ten patients who underwent sympathectomy were evaluated based on the surgical approach employed, length of hospital stay, complications, and surgical success. Result: All patients underwent bilateral thoracoscopic thoracic sympathectomy due to primary hyperhidrosis. The most common reason for referral was excessive sweating in the hands, followed by both hands and armpits, and finally only in the armpits. During the first week of follow-up, one patient complained pain at the port site, whereas all other patients’ complaints of local excessive sweating had subsided. Patients reported no concerns throughout the first month or year of follow-up. Discussion: Hyperhidrosis is a stress-related illness that impacts people’s social lives. Its presence in 30-65% of patients’ families indicates a hereditary basis. Thoracoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is an effective treatment procedure that is regarded as valid in patients with hyperhidrosis who do not react to medical treatment or who are aware about medical treatment and want a permanent solution. Conclusion: Thoracoscopic thoracic sympathectomy using a single port seems to be a safe, practical, and successful method.