Experience with limited endoscopic thoracic sympathetic block for hyperhidrosis and facial blushing

Abstract.

Endoscopic thoracic sympathetic block (ESB) has recently become a popular modification of sympathetic surgery, as it offers the potential chance of reversibility. In order to reduce side effects such as compensatory sweating limited ESB at the levels of the T2, T3 or T4 ganglia has been recommended (Lin/Telaranta classification). We present our experience and initial results with this technique.

From 6/2001 to 2/2003, 184 ESB procedures were performed in 94 patients. ESB4 was carried out in 53 patients for hyperhidrosis (HH) of the upper limb. In 23 patients ESB3 was performed for craniofacial HH and 18 patients suffering from facial blushing were treated by ESB2. Median follow-up was 5.2–7.5 months.

Success rates were similar (~100%) in all groups. Compensatory sweating was found in 25% in the ESB3 compared to 12.5 % in the ESB2 and 8.5 % in the ESB4 group (p < 0.05). Gustatory sweating did not differ significantly between the groups (6.3 % in ESB2, 5% in ESB3 and 2.1 % in ESB4 group). Five patients were reoperated in the ESB3 group (3 because of a side-difference of the effect in the face, 1 patient due to incomplete Horner’s syndrome and 1 due to massive compensatory sweating). In the ESB4 group all patients were satisfied with the outcome, whereas in the ESB2 group 6.3% and in the ESB3 group 13.9% were partly satisfied.

Limited sympathetic surgery offers comparably high success and satisfaction rates along with a low rate of side effects.