ABOUT ENDOSCOPIC THORACIC SYMPATHECTOMY (ETS):

ETS surgery is a treatment option for excessive sweating, known as Hyperhidrosis (facial, head, hands, underarms), facial blushing, vascular disorders (Raynaud`s Syndrome), etc. This surgical procedure cuts or destroys the sympathetic ganglia, which are collections of nerve cell bodies in clusters along the thoracic or lumbar spinal cord. It may be done on single or both sides at the same time.

PROCEDURE

This operation is performed under general anaesthetic. A small incision is made beneath the armpit/axilla. After insufflating CO2 into chest cavity to displace the lung, endoscope and operating instruments are inserted. Sympathetic nerve and its branches are identified. The nerve is cut at desired ganglion level and ends are cauterized. After completing this procedure, CO2 is removed, lungs re-expand and the incisions are closed.

DURATION

Done as a day care surgery or may require single day hospitalization. The surgery takes about 1 to 3 hours.

RECOVERY

A small drainage tube may be left in the chest for 1 day. There may be pain for about a week. Soaking in a bathtub and swimming is to be avoided for about 2 weeks. Regular activities can be slowly resumed.

RISKS

- Main risk is of compensatory hyperhidrosis and usually occurs on the chest or back.
- Injury inside chest (Pneumothorax/ Hemothorax)
- Droopy eyelid
- Bleeding