Transaxillary sympathectomy in the treatment of hyperhidrosis of the upper limb.

Abstract

Idiopathic (primary) hyperhidrosis is a common and distressing condition. Excessive axillary sweating responds to local excision of the eccrine glands. In severe cases, sympathectomy may be indicated to deal with hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet. The surgical anatomy of transthoracic sympathectomy is described.