Bilateral Single-Port Sympathectomy: Long-Term Results and Quality of Life. (8th December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ibrahim, Mohsen; Menna, Cecilia; Andreetti, Claudio; Ciccone, Anna Maria; D'Andrilli, Antonio; Maurizi, Giulio; Pomes, Leda Marina; Cassiano, Francesco; Venuta, Federico; Rendina, Erino A.
• Other Names: Comellas Alejandro Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: BioMed research international. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-12-08
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Life sciences -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/348017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2314-6133

Abstract

Abstract : Object . Video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedure for primary hyperhidrosis. This study aims to evaluate long-term results and patients' quality of life and investigate potential variables responsible for compensatory sweating after one-stage bilateral single-port thoracoscopic sympathectomy. Methods . Between 2005 and 2011, 260 consecutive bilateral thoracoscopic sympathectomies were performed in 130 patients for primary palmar and axillary hyperidrosis through one-port access. Residual pain, postoperative complications, recurrence of symptoms, heart rate adjustment, and quality of life were analyzed. Multivariate analysis was performed. Results . No operative mortality and conversion to open surgery were recorded. Mean operative time was 38 ± 5 minutes. Mean hospital stay was 1.1 ± 0.6 days. Eight patients (6%) had unilateral pneumothorax. Twenty-five cases (19%) were complicated by compensatory sweating. Winter and fall were identified as protective factors for compensatory sweating occurrence. Decreased heart rate was observed 1 year after surgery and permanently over the time. No recurrence during the follow-up period (31.5 months) was observed and 90% of patients showed improved quality of life. Conclusions . One-stage bilateral miniuniportal thoracoscopic sympathectomy is a valid and safe treatment for primary hyperhidrosis, achieving definitive and esthetic results, with excellent patients' satisfaction. Compensatory sweating may potentially occur in a season-dependent manner.