Thoracoscopic sympathectomy for primary palmar hyperhydrosis: the Penang Hospital experience

Background: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is a functionally and socially disabling condition. The choice of treatment is controversial.
Objective: To examine the clinical presentation of primary palmar hyperhidrosis and the results of treatment with thoracoscopic sympathectomy in a local setting.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 7 patients involving 10 sympathectomies between October 1997 and October 2000 was undertaken.
Results: The duration of anaesthesia ranged from 55 to 130 minutes with the majority being 1 hour. The immediate results were good, with all operated limbs dry soon after operation. There was no mortality or serious morbidity in this study. All were satisfied with the results of surgery.
Conclusions: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is not uncommon but rather underdiagnosed. Thoracoscopic sympathectomy is an effective treatment with minimal complications.