What is sympathectomy?

Sympathectomy is a surgical procedure that severs or removes a portion of the sympathetic nerves. The sympathetic nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. Sympathectomy is typically performed to treat conditions that are caused by overactivity of the sympathetic nerves, such as palmar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of the palms), blushing, and Raynaud's disease.

During a sympathectomy, the surgeon will make an incision in the skin and then identify and sever or remove the affected sympathetic nerves. The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can usually return home the same day. Recovery from sympathectomy is typically quick, and most patients experience significant relief from their symptoms.

There are a few different types of sympathectomy, depending on the condition being treated. The most common type of sympathectomy is palmar sympathectomy, which is used to treat palmar hyperhidrosis. Other types of sympathectomy include facial sympathectomy, which is used to treat blushing, and lumbar sympathectomy, which is used to treat Raynaud's disease.

Sympathectomy is a safe and effective procedure, but there are a few potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. Nerve damage can lead to permanent complications, such as Horner's syndrome (drooping of the eyelid, constriction of the pupil, and lack of sweating on one side of the face) and anhidrosis (inability to sweat).