Bilateral thoracoscopic sympathectomy for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis in the active duty population

Abstract

In an active duty population charged with handling weapons and heavy equipment, hyperhidrosis is a dangerous affliction. Surgical correction of hyperhidrosis is possible by transection of the thoracic sympathetic chain. Thoracoscopic sympathectomy should yield results similar to those of a standard open thoracotomy approach but with decreased recovery times, a more rapid return to duty, and improved job performance. Three active duty patients presented to the Naval Medical Center, San Diego, for evaluation of palmar hyperhidrosis. All patients underwent bilateral thoracoscopic sympathectomy for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis. They tolerated the procedure well without complications and were satisfied with their outcomes. They reported no further episodes of hyperhidrosis and have returned to full duty. This procedure is especially relevant for patients in the active duty population, whose job safety is affected by hyperhidrosis. Those treated can expect to return to full duty in a timely manner.