What is a Bilateral Sympathectomy?

Answer 1

A bilateral sympathectomy is an operation to destroy some part of the sympathetic nervous system. This is often done to treat excessive sweating of the palms, underarms, or face. The cut is usually made between the second and fourth thoracic ribs on both sides. Is carried out in a minimally invasive procedure, using an endoscope. Patient is usually unconscious during operation however there is a possibility of doing it with epidural and the patient being awake.

The result of the procedure is complete anhidrosis (inability to sweat) from the mid-chest upwards, and increased sweating on the rest of the body. Possible side-effects can be lowered cardiac function, diminished lung volume, paralyzed blood vessels, change in muscle fiber composition, loss of tactile sensitivity, dysfunctional thermoregulation, diminished exercise capacity, and reduction in the experience of strong emotions. The entire syndrome is called "Corposcindosis" (Split-Body Syndrome).

Possible complications include Horner's Syndrome, brachial plexus injury, bleeding, infection.