Sympathectomy

Sympathectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or destruction of specific parts of the sympathetic nervous system. The procedure is typically performed to treat conditions that are caused by an overactive sympathetic nervous system, such as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), Raynaud's disease, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

Procedure

The sympathectomy procedure can be performed using several different techniques, including endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), lumbar sympathectomy, and cervical sympathectomy. The choice of technique depends on the specific condition being treated and the patient's overall health.

Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy

In an ETS procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the chest and inserts a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope. The endoscope is equipped with a light and a camera, allowing the surgeon to view the sympathetic nerves. The surgeon then uses a special instrument to cut or clamp the nerves.

Lumbar Sympathectomy

A lumbar sympathectomy is performed to treat conditions affecting the lower body, such as excessive sweating of the feet. The procedure involves making an incision in the lower back and removing or clamping the lumbar sympathetic nerves.

Cervical Sympathectomy

A cervical sympathectomy is performed to treat conditions affecting the upper body, such as excessive sweating of the hands. The procedure involves making an incision in the neck and removing or clamping the cervical sympathetic nerves.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, sympathectomy carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding tissues. In addition, sympathectomy can result in a condition known as compensatory sweating, in which the body sweats more in other areas to compensate for the loss of sweating in the treated area.

See Also

• Hyperhidrosis
• Raynaud's disease
• Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
• Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy
• Lumbar sympathectomy
• Cervical sympathectomy