Comparison of Microwave-Based Therapy and Negative-Pressure Suction-Curettage for Axillary Hyperhidrosis and Bromhidrosis: A Retrospective Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Axillary hyperhidrosis and bromhidrosis are common clinical diseases, affecting the patients' work and life. Negative-pressure suction-curettage is the most popular treatment now, but challenged by a new microwave-based therapy (MiraDry). We intend to compare the safety and efficiency of the 2 treatments. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 39 female patients with both primary hyperhidrosis and bromhidrosis was conducted. Seventeen patients were treated with MiraDry, and 22 underwent negative-pressure suction-curettage. The postoperative follow-up program included sweat and odor assessments, satisfaction measurement, safety evaluation, and recurrence assessment at different time points until 12 months. RESULTS: Both treatments showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in HDSS score and odor level at 6 and 12 months compared with the baseline. No significant difference in relative reduction was observed between the 2 groups. The satisfaction score of the microwave-based therapy group was higher than that of the negative-pressure suction-curettage group, but no statistical difference was found. The difference in the recurrence rate and complication rate between the groups did not reach significance. CONCLUSIONS: Microwave-based therapy is a noninvasive treatment with durable effects, low risks, shorter downtime, good appearance, and high satisfaction for axillary hyperhidrosis and bromhidrosis.

Comparative Study of 1444 nm Laser Monotherapy versus Integrated Liposuction in the Treatment of Axillary Osmidrosis.

Background and Objectives: The 1444 nm wavelength Neodymium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser treatment is an efficient method for treating axillary osmidrosis (AO); however, it has a relatively low treatment persistence. To address this issue, we performed integrated liposuction surgery with a laser to treat AO and compared the results with those of a group treated only with a laser. Materials and Methods: This study compared the outcomes of AO treatment between the two groups up to six months postoperatively. The first group of 18 patients underwent laser treatment alone, and the second group of 12 patients underwent integrated liposuction surgery in addition to laser treatment. Outcomes were assessed using the following variables: degree of malodor (DOM), sweating area, patient satisfaction, pain levels, and complications, such as burns, swelling, and contractures. Results: Compared to the laser-only group, the integrated liposuction group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes in terms of DOM (p = 0.002) and patient satisfaction (p = 0.006), as well as a reduction in the sweating area (p = 0.012). The pain rating was higher in the liposuction group, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.054). Compared with the patients in the integrated liposuction treatment group, those in the laser treatment group exhibited a significantly higher number of burns under the axillae (p = 0.025). However, no significant differences were observed in the swelling or contracture between the groups. Conclusions: Integrated liposuction with laser therapy significantly improved treatment outcomes, including malodor, patient satisfaction, sweat test results, and decreased complication rates.

Efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation versus surgical sympathectomy in palmar hyperhidrosis.

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) comparative efficacy of treatments using video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy (VATS) in the long term remains uncertain in patients with palmar hyperhidrosis (PHH). This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of RFA and VATS in patients with PHH. We recruited patients aged ≥ 14 years with diagnosed PHH from 14 centres in China. The treatment options of RFA or VATS were assigned to two cohort in patients with PHH. The primary outcome was the efficacy at 1-year. A total of 807 patients were enrolled. After propensity score matching, the rate of complete remission was lower in RFA group than VATS group (95% CI 0.21-0.57; p < 0.001). However, the rates of palmar dryness (95% CI 0.38-0.92; p = 0.020), postoperative pain (95% CI 0.13-0.33; p < 0.001), and surgery-related complications (95% CI 0.19-0.85; p = 0.020) were lower in RFA group than in VATS group, but skin temperature rise was more common in RFA group (95% CI 1.84-3.58; p < 0.001). RFA had a lower success rate than VATS for the complete remission of PHH. However, the symptom burden and cost are lower in patients undergoing RFA compared to those undergoing VATS.Trial Registration: ChiCTR2000039576, URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx .

Using an Innovative Protective Sleeve to Reduce Skin Compression Complications in Axillary Osmidrosis Surgery.

Osmidrosis is a condition characterized by malodorous sweat production in the armpits that often necessitates surgical intervention with tie-over bandages in the axillary area. Standard tie-over bandages may cause skin compression-related complications, such as bruising and skin erosion. To address this issue, we developed a novel technique using a modified protective sleeve. We conducted an observational study involving 60 patients undergoing axillary osmidrosis surgery and divided them into groups. In the experimental group we used a novel technique that included using a modified protective sleeve secured with 4-0 silk sutures. In the control group we used standard tie-over bandages. We created the protective sleeve from the tail of a 3 mL syringe by drilling holes on both sides and securing it onto a 10 mm-wide Penrose drain. We threaded sutures through the holes and provided padding between the sutures and the skin. We assessed primary outcomes of bruising and skin breakdown at eight anchoring sites. We found that using the novel protective sleeve significantly reduced skin complications. Compared with standard bandages, the incidence of bruising was reduced by 83.33% (i.e., 16.7% vs 70%). The incidence of skin erosion was reduced by 75% (10% vs 40%). Notably, the control group exhibited delayed complications, such as hypertrophic scars.

La sudoración compensatoria como efecto secundario en la cirugía de la hiperhidrosis palmar primaria / Compensatory Sweating as a Side Effect of Surgical Treatment of Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Introducción: La sudoración compensatoria es un efecto secundario de la simpaticotomía videotoracoscópica, que tiene una alta incidencia y puede provocar insatisfacción en los pacientes operados. Objetivo: Determinar el comportamiento de la sudoración compensatoria en los pacientes en que se les realizó una simpaticotomía videotoracoscópica por hiperhidrosis palmar. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, transversal y descriptivo de 42 pacientes que tras la cirugía por hiperhidrosis palmar presentaron sudor compensatorio. Se analizó la incidencia, localización, severidad, afectación de la calidad de vida y nivel de satisfacción. Resultados: Predominó la sudoración compensatoria ligera, la localización en la espalda y el abdomen. Hubo un alto nivel de tolerancia, con solo un paciente insatisfecho y un 100 por ciento de mejoría de la calidad de vida. Conclusiones: La sudoración compensatoria no influyó negativamente en la calidad de vida de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Compensatory sweating is a side effect of videothoracoscopic sympathectomy. It presents high incidence and may cause dissatisfaction to operated patients. Objective: To determine the characteristics of compensatory sweating in patients who underwent videothoracoscopic sympathectomy for palmar hyperhidrosis. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out with 42 patients who presented compensatory sweating after surgery for palmar hyperhidrosis. Incidence, location, severity, change in quality of life and level of satisfaction were analyzed. Results: Light compensatory sweating predominated, with location on back and abdomen. There was a high level of tolerance, with only one dissatisfied patient and 100 percent of improvement in quality of life. Conclusions: Compensatory sweating did not influence negatively the patients' quality of life(AU)

Cohort study on 20 years' experience of bilateral video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy (VATS) for treatment of hyperhidrosis in 2431 patients

Abstract BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, inconsistent with the needs for thermoregulation. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and the change in the quality of life of patients undergoing bilateral VATS (video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy) for treatment of hyperhidrosis, in a large case series. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cohort study conducted in a tertiary hospital specializing in hyperhidrosis located in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 2,431 patients who underwent surgery consisting of bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy between January 2000 and February 2017 were retrospectively assessed in an outpatient clinic specializing in hyperhidrosis. The patients underwent clinical and quality of life assessments on two occasions: firstly, prior to surgery, and subsequently, one month after the operation. The presence or absence of compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) and general satisfaction after the first postoperative month were also evaluated. RESULTS: All the patients operated had poor or very poor quality of life before surgery. In the postoperative period, an improvement in the quality of life was observed in more than 90% of the patients. Only 10.7% of the patients did not present CH, and severe CH occurred in 22.1% of the patients in this sample. CONCLUSION: Bilateral VATS is a therapeutic method that decreases the degree of sweating more than 90% of patients with palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. It improves the quality of life for more than 90% of the patients, at the expense of development of CH in approximately 90% of the patients, but not intensely.

Simpaticotomía bilateral video asistida por hiperhidrosis: análisis de 102 pacientes / Bilateral video-assisted thoracic sympathicotomy for hiperhidrosis: analysis of 102 patients

Resumen La hiperhidrosis es un trastorno caracterizado por la producción excesiva de sudor por las glándulas sudoríparas ecrinas que influye negativamente en las actividades sociales, laborales y fundamentalmente en la calidad de vida. Se divide en primaria o secundaria. La primaria es una enfermedad benigna caracterizada por una excesiva sudoración con mayor frecuencia en palmas, plantas, axilas y cara. Su incidencia es del 1% de la población y su causa es desconocida. La mayoría de los tratamientos médicos no logran un buen control sintomático y frecuentemente son transitorios. La simpaticotomía torácica bilateral videoasistida se ha vuelto el tratamiento de elección en pacientes muy sintomáticos. En el período de 1998 a 2018 se realizaron 174 simpaticotomias bilaterales videoasistidas por hiperhidrosis primaria, de las cuales 102 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. Se excluyeron a 72 pacientes. El 20.5% fueron hombres y el 79.5% mujeres con una edad media de 29.22 años. En cuanto a la localización fue palmoplantar axilar en un 50.9%, axilar en un 23.5%, palmoplantar en un 10.7%, palmar en un 7.8%, palmoaxilar 6.8% y facial 5.8%. Los pacientes con sudoración palmar presentaron 94.9% de mejoría, axilar 84.51%, plantar 46.25% y facial 84% respectivamente. El post operatorio arrojó una media de internación de 1.1 días. Como efecto no deseado, se presentó sudoración compensatoria en 53 casos y complicaciones postoperatorias en 18 casos. Concluimos que es una técnica segura, que resuelve de manera significativa la sudoración, mejorando la calidad de vida.

Abstract Hyperhidrosis is a disorder consisting of excessive sweating through the different body sweat glands, which produces a negative impact socially and in work-related activities in those that suffer this condition. There are primary and secondary forms. The primary form is a benign condition with excessive sweating mainly in palms, soles of feet, axillae and face. It affects a 1% of the population, and its cause is unknown. Most medical treatments are unsuccessful, and at best, transitory. In patients who are very troubled by the condition, videoassisted bilateral thoracic sympathicotomy has become the elective treatment. In the period ranging from 1998 to 2018, 174 procedures were undertaken for primary hyperhidrosis, of which 102 satisfied the inclusion criteria. 72 patients were excluded. A 20.5% were males, and 79.5% were females, with an average age of 29.22 years at surgery. As to localization of sweating, a 50.9% was palmar-plantar-axillary, 23.5% axillary, 10.7% palmarplantar, 7.8% palmar, 6.8% palmar-axillary, and a 5.8% facial. Those patients with palmar sweating showed a 94.9% improvement, those with axillary sweating a 88.51%, with plantar a 46.25% and those with facial sweating a 84% improvement. The average admission time was 1.1 days. As an undesired effect, compensatory sweating occurred in 53 cases and postoperative complications in 18 cases. We conclude this is a safe technique, that diminishes sweating significantly, improving patient's quality of life.

Is there neural and functional recovery after clip removal in cervical experimental sympathectomy? / Existe recuperação neural e funcional após a retirada de clipe quando da indução de simpatectomia cervical experimental?

ABSTRACT Background: The surgical treatment of hyperhidrosis by thoracic sympathectomy has brought, in addition to symptomatic relief for many, its main adverse effect: compensatory or reflex sweating. The clipping technique in place of the sympathetic nerve section gave rise to the hope of reversibility, but the positive results showed to be quite divergent, evidencing the academic deficiency regarding the study of this phenomenon. Aim: To observe micro and macroscopic damage caused by the polymer clip on sympathetic nerve of rabbits seven days after their clipping and the findings after three weeks of clip removal. Method: In this experimental study, 20 rabbits were divided into two groups of 10, group 1 (clipping) and group 2 (de-clipping). The right cervical sympathetic nerve of all animals was clamped with polymeric clip, and in group 2 the nerve was unclipped seven days later. Group 1 rabbits were induced to death on the 7th postoperative day, and group 2 on the 21st after removal of the polymer clip. Macroscopic variables were: clip appearance, presence of discontinuity lesion, infection and adhesions around the nerve. H&E was used in the evaluation of the phases and degree of the inflammatory process and presence of necrosis, and picrosirius red F3BA for quantification of collagen. Results: The cervical sympathetic nerve was intact, without necrosis or infection in all animals of the experiment; there were adhesions in both groups, being minimal in eight animals of each group and moderate or intense in two; the clip was completely closed in all animals at the 7th postoperative day; the inflammatory process shown was chronic, with monomorphonuclear predominance. There was no significant difference between groups regarding the intensity the inflammatory process, but the amount of collagen type I and type III was significantly higher in group 2. Conclusions: The injury caused by the polymer clip on the sympathetic nerve may be reversible, allowing functional return in the areas involved in the simulated cervical sympathectomy. Clipping of the cervical sympathetic nerve using a polymer clip does not cause discontinuity injury.

RESUMO Racional: O tratamento cirúrgico da hiperidrose pela simpatectomia torácica trouxe além do alívio sintomático para muitos, também seu principal efeito adverso: o suor compensatório ou reflexo. A técnica de clipagem do nervo simpático no lugar de sua secção deu margem à esperança de reversão do procedimento; porém, os resultados mostram-se bastante divergentes e pouco conclusivos Objetivo: Observar a lesão provocada pelo clipe de polímero em nervo simpático de coelhos sete dias após sua clipagem, comparando-a com os achados após três semanas da retirada do clipe. Método: Estudo experimental, com amostra formada por 20 coelhos, divididos em dois grupos de 10, sendo o grupo 1 chamado clipagem e o 2, desclipagem. Todos foram submetidos à clipagem do nervo simpático cervical direito com clipe polimérico, e no grupo 2 realizou-se a desclipagem sete dias após. Os coelhos do grupo 1 foram submetidos à eutanásia no 7º dia de pós-operatório, e os do grupo 2 no 21º dia após a remoção do clipe. Observou-se na macroscopia o aspecto do clipe, a presença de lesão de descontinuidade, infecção e aderências ao redor do nervo. Para estudo microscópico utilizou-se a coloração H&E na avaliação das fases, grau do processo inflamatório e presença de necrose, e a de picrosirius red F3BA para quantificação de colágeno. Resultados: O nervo simpático cervical foi identificado íntegro, sem necrose ou infecção em todos os animais do experimento; havia aderências em ambos os grupos, sendo mínimas em oito de cada grupo e moderadas ou intensas em dois; em toda a amostra o clipe encontrava-se completamente fechado no 7º dia de pós-operatório; o processo inflamatório presente foi do tipo crônico, com predomínio monomorfonuclear, não se observando diferença significativa em relação ao grau do processo inflamatório entre os grupos; porém, a quantidade de colágeno tanto do tipo I quanto do tipo III foi significativamente maior no grupo 2. Conclusões: A lesão provocada pelo clipe de polímero em nervo simpático pode ser reversível possibilitando o retorno funcional nas áreas envolvidas na simpatectomia cervical simulada. A clipagem do nervo simpático cervical com uso de clipe de polímero não causa lesão de descontinuidade.

Perspectives of bilateral thoracic sympathectomy for treatment of heart failure

Surgical neuromodulation therapies are still considered a last resort when standard therapies have failed for patients with progressive heart failure (HF). Although a number of experimental studies have provided robust evidence of its effectiveness, the lack of strong clinical evidence discourages practitioners. Thoracic unilateral sympathectomy has been extensively studied and has failed to show significant clinical improvement in HF patients. Most recently, bilateral sympathectomy effect was associated with a high degree of success in HF models, opening the perspective to be investigated in randomized controlled clinical trials. In addition, a series of clinical trials showed that bilateral sympathectomy was associated with a decreased risk of sudden death, which is an important outcome in patients with HF. These aspects indicates that bilateral sympathectomy could be an important alternative in the treatment of HF wherein pharmacological treatment barely reaches the target dose.

Minilaparoscopic lumbar sympathectomy with 3 mm instruments for plantar hyperhidrosis / Simpatectomia lombar endoscópica com microinstrumental de 3 mm para hiperidrose plantar

Abstract Severe palmoplantar hyperhidrosis affects about 1.5-2.8% of the general population. Plantar hyperhidrosis (PHH) is related to foot odor, cold feet, skin lesions and infections, and even instability when walking. Endoscopic Lumbar Sympathectomy (ELS) is the treatment of choice for this condition. However, few surgeons have used this technique over the past 20 years because of its technical difficulty. Two and 3 mm instruments, rather than the standard 5 mm instruments, have been used to improve the results of several standard laparoscopic procedures. Use of these minilaparoscopic instruments to perform ELS so far has not yet been published. We describe a technique for ELS using minilaparocopic instruments, which we have used for our last 70 cases and has become our standard technique. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of this technique and its advantages compared to the conventional technique.

Resumo A hiperidrose palmoplantar grave afeta cerca de 1,5-2,8% da população geral. A hiperidrose plantar está relacionada a odor dos pés, pés frios, lesões cutâneas, infecções, e até instabilidade da marcha. A simpatectomia lombar endoscópica (endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy, ELS) é o tratamento de escolha para essa condição; entretanto, tem sido utilizada por poucos cirurgiões nos últimos 20 anos, devido à sua dificuldade técnica. Instrumentos de 2 e 3 mm em vez de 5 mm vêm sendo utilizados para melhorar os resultados de vários procedimentos laparoscópicos padrão. O uso desses instrumentos para realizar ELS ainda não foi descrito. Descrevemos a técnica para ELS usando microinstrumentos, a qual vem sendo usada para os nossos últimos 70 casos, pois passou a ser nosso procedimento padrão. O objetivo deste estudo é apresentar a experiência com essa modificação técnica, assinalando as vantagens em relação à técnica tradicional.

Simpatectomia bilateral R5-R8 no tratamento de hiperidrose compensatória: análise de complicações e satisfação dos pacientes / Bilateral R5-R8 sympathectomy for compensatory hyperhidrosis: complications and patient satisfaction

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes submetidos a simpatectomia torácica bilateral de R5 a R8 como forma de tratamento da hiperidrose compensatória (HC) grave e debilitante em pacientes que foram previamente submetidos a simpatectomia torácica bilateral para tratamento da hiperidrose localizada. Métodos: Doze pacientes com hiperidrose compensatória grave e debilitante foram submetidos a simpatectomia estendida no Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Brasil, entre setembro de 2016 e maio de 2019. Os seguintes desfechos foram estudados: nível de satisfação com a operação, escore de qualidade de vida e as possíveis complicações cirúrgicas. Resultados: Houve significativa melhora na qualidade de vida em 66% da amostra. Em todas as esferas de função, foi evidenciada relevância estatística no que se refere ao alívio dos sintomas relacionados à hiperidrose compensatória. Conclusões: A simpatectomia estendida de R5 a R8 mostrou-se efetiva na maioria dos casos operados, caracterizando este procedimento como promissor, podendo, após estudos futuros, ser incluído como uma opção terapêutica para a hiperidrose compensatória.

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of life of patients who had undergone bilateral thoracic sympathectomy from R5 to R8 as a treatment for severe and debilitating compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH). Methods: Twelve patients with severe and debilitating compensatory hyperhidrosis underwent extended sympathectomy (R5-R8) from September 2016 to May 2019 at the Hospital das Clínicas, Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil. Outcomes such as the level of patient satisfaction with the operation, quality of life scores as well as postoperative complications were assessed. Results: There has been a substantial improvement in the quality of life score of 66% of the sample. In all four domains, a statistical significant difference was seen, regarding the relief of compensatory hyperhidrosis symptoms. Conclusions: Extended sympathectomy from R5 to R8 was shown to be quite effective in most cases, leading us to believe that this approach could be a therapeutic option for severe compensatory hyperhidrosis.

Simpatectomia torácica por videotoracoscopia: revisão da literatura / Video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy: literature review

RESUMO A simpatectomia toracoscópica mostrou-se eficaz no alívio da hiperidrose em diversos pacientes, com melhora da qualidade de vida. O conhecimento do quadro clínico de cada paciente, assim como, as possíveis complicações pós-operatórias, são fundamentais para a obtenção de bons resultados. Deste modo, foi realizada uma revisão na base de dados PubMed de artigos publicados entre 2005 e 2019 que apresentavam como temática principal a simpatectomia realizada por videotoracoscopia para o tratamento da hiperidrose, com o objetivo de avaliar o atual estado da arte referente à qualidade de vida pós-operatória, o tempo de cirurgia e as suas complicações. A partir desta análise, verificou-se a importância do nível de secção da cadeia ganglionar simpática em relação aos resultados. As complicações, apesar de ocorrerem, não reduziram o nível de satisfação e qualidade de vida pós-operatória dos pacientes.

ABSTRACT. Thoracic sympathectomy has been effective in relieving hyperhidrosis in several patients, with quality of life improvement. The knowledge of the clinical picture of each patient, as well as the possible postoperative complications, are fundamental to obtain good results. Thus, we performed a review of articles from the PubMed database published between 2005 and 2019 that presented, as the main topic, thoracoscopy sympathectomy for the treatment of hyperhidrosis, with the objective of evaluating the current state of art referring to postoperative quality of life, surgical time and its complications. From this analysis, we verified the importance of the level of sympathetic ganglion chain section in relation to results. The complication, although occurring, did not reduced the postoperative level of satisfaction or patients' quality of life.

Estandarización de una técnica en el tiempo y su impacto en los resultados para hiperhidrosis palmar primaria / Our technique standardization on time and how impact over outcomes for primary palmar hiperhidrosis

Resumen Introducción: La hiperhidrosis palmar primaria es un problema médico frecuente. Minimizar la invasión, simplificar y estandarizar la técnica supone mejores resultados. Objetivo: Evaluar eficacia y seguridad con la aplicación de nuestra técnica simplificada y estandarizada, a través de su impacto en los resultados trans y postoperatorio para la hiperhidrosis palmar primaria (HPP). Materiales y Método: Se realiza estudio observacional que evalúa los resultados obtenidos con la aplicación de nuestra técnica estandarizada para el tratamiento de HPP. El universo está constituido por 359 pacientes intervenidos entre 2007 y 2011. El control hasta los 5 años fue posible en 298, los que constituyeron la muestra definitiva. Resultados: Se analizaron 298 pacientes (596 procedimientos). En el transoperatorio solo 3 pacientes (1%) presentaron alguna complicación. El manejo del dolor torácico fue la mayor dificultad inmediata a la cirugía, con 61,7% de dolor moderado y 15,2% severo. Último control a 5 años con curación en el 99,7% y una recidiva. Los índices de satisfacción se muestran en rango excelente según encuestas validadas. Manejo ambulatorio en 99%. Discusión: Aplicar intubación endotraqueal simple permite extrapolar ventajas ya conocidas de esta técnica y menos complicaciones respiratorias, suspensiones, uso de recursos costosos o personal muy calificado. La combinación de simplificar aspectos quirúrgicos y anestésicos permitieron estandarizar y simplificar nuestra técnica y con ello: no necesitar drenajes pleurales, menos dolor, recuperación casi inmediata de la fisiología respiratoria y alta precoz. Conclusión: Combinar el empleo de tubo endotraqueal simple y oxigenación apneíca con minimizar la invasión quirúrgica: puerto único, sin drenaje pleural y manejo ambulatorio constituyen una práctica segura para la simpatectomía torácica endoscópica, con mejores resultados postoperatorios, una vez logrado en entrenamiento necesario.

Introduction: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is a frequent medical problem. Minimizing invasion, simplifying and standardizing technique means better results. Aim: To evaluate efficacy and safety with the application of our simplified and standardized technique, through its impact on trans and post-operative outcomes for primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH). Minimizing approach, simplifying and standardizing the technique should lead to better outcomes. Materials and Method: An observational study is carried out to evaluate the outcomes obtained with the application of our standardized technique for the treatment of PPH. The universe constituted by 359 patients treated between 2007 and 2011. Control up to 5 years was possible in 298, which constituted the definitive sample. Results: 298 patients (596 procedures) were analyzed. In the transoperative only 3 patients (1%) report minor complication. Thoracic pain management was the greatest difficulty immediate to surgery, with 61.7% moderate pain and 15.2% severe. Satisfaction indexes in excellent range according to validated surveys. Outpatient management in 99%. Discussion: Simple intubation avoids respiratory complications, suspensions, use of expensive resources or highly qualified personnel. Early pain relief, non-uses of pleural tubes or antibiotics allows rapid recovery and early discharge due to simplification and standardization of the technique. Conclusion: The use of simple endotraqueal tube and oxygenation in apnea, single port, without pleural drainage or antibiotics and ambulatory is a safe practice for endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy, once achieved in necessary training.

Simpaticectomía torácica bilateral por videocirugía: diez años de experiencia / Bilateral video-assisted thorascopic sympathectomy: a 10 years' experience / Simpatectomia torácica bilateral videoassistida: 10 anos de experiência

Se define la hiperhidrosis como una excesiva sudoración en respuesta a estímulos térmicos o emocionales más allá de los requerimientos fisiológicos, con una incidencia de 2% a 4% en la población mundial. Si bien existen varios tipos de tratamientos, la opción quirúrgica brinda excelentes resultados con bajas tasas de recidiva. Pacientes y método: estudio retrospectivo de 190 simpaticectomías torácicas videoasistidas realizadas desde 2003 hasta 2013, totalizando 95 pacientes. Se realizó una encuesta mediante un cuestionario sobre calidad de vida y sobre la severidad de los síntomas. Resultados: se logró recabar el cuestionario en 58 pacientes (30% hombres y 70% mujeres) con una media de edad de 25 años. El 90% se dio de alta entre las 24 y 48 horas del posoperatorio. Del total de pacientes, 72% presentaba hiperhidrosis severa. Del procedimiento podemos decir que dos pacientes presentaron recurrencia y un paciente refirió disconformidad por hipersequedad de la piel. El 80% presentó algún tipo de hiperhidrosis compensadora, no siendo este un síntoma de preocupación mayor por parte de los pacientes. No hubo complicaciones de procedimiento. Respecto a la calidad de vida, era mala o regular en el 90% de los pacientes, mejorando en el posoperatorio, siendo buena o muy buena en el 95%. El 94% de los pacientes están conformes o muy conformes con el procedimiento y sus resultados. Como conclusión, podemos establecer que la simpaticectomía torácica bilateral para el tratamiento de la hiperhidrosis es un método altamente seguro y efectivo. (AU)

Hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating as a response of thermal or emotional stimuli beyond physiological requirements, and it incidence is 2 to 4% of the global population. In spite of there being several kinds of treatment, surgery provides excellent results with low relapse rates. Method: retrospective study of 190 video-assisted thoracic sympathectomies performed from 2003 until 2013, accounting for 95 patients. A survey was conducted through a quality-of-life questionnaire and questions on the severity of symptoms. Results: 58 patients completed the survey (30% men and 70% women) with an average age of 25 years old. 90% were discharged from hospital between 24 and 48 hours after surgery. 72% of patients presented severe hyperhidrosis. Based on the procedure, we may state 2 patients presented recurrence and only one patient declared to be uncomfortable with the hyper-dryness of skin. 80% of patients presented some kind of compensating hyperdidrosis, being the no reason for concern among patients. There were no complications arising from the procedure. As to the quality of life it used to be bad or fair in 90% of patients, and improved in the postoperative period, being it good or very good in 95% of them. 94% of patients are satisfied or very satisfied with the procedure and its results. As a conclusion, we may sat that bilateral thoracic sympathectomy is a highly safe and effective method to treat hyperhidrosis.

A hiperidrose está definida como uma sudoração excessiva como resposta a estímulos térmicos ou emocionais superior aos requerimentos fisiológicos; tem uma incidência de 2 a 4% na população mundial. Embora vários tipos de tratamentos estejam disponíveis, a cirurgia tem resultados excelentes com baixas taxas de recidiva. Pacientes e métodos: estudo retrospectivo de 190 simpatectomias torácicas videoassistidas realizadas no período 2003-2013 em um total de 95 pacientes. Realizou-se um questionário sobre qualidade de vida e gravidade dos sintomas. Resultados: 58 pacientes com idade média de 25 anos responderam o questionário (30% homens e 70% mulheres). 90% teve alta entre 24 e 48hs pós cirurgia. 72% dos pacientes apresentava hiperidrose severa. Com relação ao procedimento 2 pacientes apresentaram recorrência e 1 paciente declarou não estar satisfeita devido ao ressecamento excessivo da pele. 80% apresentou algum tipo de hiperidrose compensadora, não sendo este um sintoma de maior preocupação dos pacientes. Não foram registradas complicações relacionadas ao procedimento. Em 90% dos pacientes a qualidade de vida era ruim ou regular melhorando no pós-operatório, a boa ou muito boa em 95% dos casos. 94% dos pacientes relatou estar satisfeito ou muito satisfeito com o procedimento e seus resultados. Como conclusão podemos dizer que a simpatectomia torácica bilateral para o tratamento da hiperidrose é um método muito seguro e efetivo.

Simpatectomía torácica, solución para hiperhidrosis / Toracic Sympathectomy, solution for hyperhidrosis

PREFACE: Videothoracoscopic sympathectomy (VTS) is the gold standard treatment for the upper extremity hyperhidrosis (HH) because it is safe and has good results. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate retrospectively the long term results of VTS for the treatment of HH on 50 operated patients in the Maule Region from the year 2003 to september of 2015. METHODS: For axillary HH a T2 to T4 VTS was performed, and T3 VTS for palmar HH. All the patients were operated bilaterally through 2 axillary ports. The operatory sucess was evaluated through the persistence or not of sweating of the palm and armpit. Also, all the complications associated were registered. RESULTS: The procedure was successful in 96% of the patients, who reached anhidrosis in the palms and armpits. The most common complication was compensatory sweating, minimal to mild in 28% of the patients aproximately, severe only in one case; intense post operatory pain in 3 cases and sympathyc reinervation in 2 cases. There was no Infection, Horner syndrome, inthercostal arthery injury or mortality reported. CONCLUSION: The billateral VTS is an effective and safe procedure to obtain anhidrosis in patients with upper extremity hyperhidrosys.

Longitudinal follow-up of cardiac vagal activity in individuals undergoing endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy / Acompanhamento longitudinal da atividade vagal cardíaca de indivíduos submetidos à simpatectomia torácica endoscópica

ABSTRACT Objective: To conduct a longitudinal investigation of cardiac vagal activity (CVA) by measuring resting HR and calculating the cardiac vagal index (CVI) in individuals undergoing sympathectomy for the treatment of primary hyperhidrosis. Methods: This was a descriptive longitudinal study involving 22 patients, 13 of whom were female. The mean age was 22.5 ± 8.8 years. The palms, soles, and axillae were the most commonly affected sites. Resting HR was measured by an electrocardiogram performed 20 min before the 4-second exercise test (4sET), which was used in order to evaluate CVA at three different time points: before surgery, one month after surgery, and four years after surgery. Results: Resting HR (expressed as mean ± SE) was found to have decreased significantly at 1 month after surgery (73.1 ± 1.6 bpm before surgery vs. 69.7 ± 1.2 bpm at one month after surgery; p = 0.01). However, the HR values obtained at four years after surgery tended to be similar to those obtained before surgery (p = 0.31). The CVI (expressed as mean ± SE) was found to have increased significantly at one month after surgery (1.44 ± 0.04 before surgery vs. 1.53 ± 0.03 at one month after surgery; p = 0.02). However, the CVI obtained at four years after surgery tended to be similar to that obtained before surgery (p = 0.10). Conclusions: At one month after sympathectomy for primary hyperhidrosis, patients present with changes in resting HR and CVA, both of which tend to return to baseline at four years after surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar longitudinalmente o comportamento da atividade vagal cardíaca (AVC) por meio da FC de repouso e do índice vagal cardíaco (IVC) de indivíduos submetidos à simpatectomia para o tratamento de hiperidrose primária. Métodos: Estudo de natureza descritiva e longitudinal que avaliou 22 pacientes (13 mulheres), com média de idade de 22,5 ± 8,8 anos. Os locais mais afetados eram as mãos, pés e axilas. A FC de repouso média foi mensurada através de eletrocardiograma 20 min antes do teste de exercício de 4 segundos (T4s), que foi utilizado para a avaliação da AVC em três momentos: antes da cirurgia, um mês após a cirurgia e quatro anos após a cirurgia. Resultados: A média ± erro-padrão da FC de repouso apresentou uma redução significativa entre a avaliação pré-operatória e um mês após a cirurgia (73,1 ± 1,6 bpm vs. 69,7 ± 1,2 bpm; p = 0,01), tendendo a retornar aos valores pré-operatórios quatro anos após a cirurgia (p = 0,31). Houve um aumento significativo do IVC entre o pré-operatório e um mês após a cirurgia (1,44 ± 0,04 vs. 1,53 ± 0,03; p = 0,02), tendendo também a retornar próximo aos valores do pré-operatório após quatro anos da cirurgia (p = 0,10). Conclusões: A simpatectomia resultou em alteração na FC de repouso e na AVC um mês após a cirurgia, retornando, após quatro anos, aos valores próximos do pré-operatório.

Avaliação da qualidade de vida de pacientes portadores de hiperidrose primária submetidos à simpatectomia videotoracoscópica / Evaluation of the quality of life of patients with primary hyperhidrosis submitted to videothoracoscopic sympathectomy

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes submetidos à simpatectomia por videotoracoscopia para tratamento de hiperidrose primária. Métodos: foram avaliados os pacientes submetidos à simpatectomia por videotoracoscopia para tratamento de hiperidrose primária pela equipe de cirurgia torácica do Hospital Universitário Gafrée e Guinle-UNIRIO entre julho de 2004 e agosto de 2013. Foi aplicado um questionário sobre qualidade de vida relacionada à hiperidrose desde o pré-operatório até um ano após a operação. Resultados: o questionário foi aplicado em 122 pacientes com média de idade de 25 anos, sendo 57% mulheres. Quanto à severidade da hiperidrose primária, 83% dos pacientes referiam como pouco tolerável ou intolerável, associada com grande limitação da qualidade de vida, sendo esta pobre ou muito pobre em 82% dos casos. No pós operatório a hiperidrose compensatória ocorreu em 78% dos pacientes, entretanto foi considerada como imperceptível ou pouco perceptível por 85% destes pacientes, classificando-a como aceitável. Em 15% dos pacientes a hiperidrose compensatória foi classificada como perturbadora. Conclusão: a simpatectomia videotoracoscópica melhora a qualidade de vida dos pacientes com hiperidrose primária. A hiperidrose compensatória transitória ocorreu na maioria dos pacientes, mas não alterou de maneira significativa a melhora da qualidade de vida.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the quality of life of patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopy for primary hyperhidrosis. Methods: we evaluated the patients who underwent thoracoscopic sympathectomy to treat primary hyperhidrosis by the team of thoracic surgery at the University Hospital Gaffrée and Guinle - UNIRIO between July 2004 and August 2013. It was applied a questionnaire about quality of life related to hyperhidrosis since preoperative period until one year after the surgery. Results: one hundred twenty two patients answered the questionnaire, with a mean age of 25 years, 57% of whom were women. In relation to severity of primary hyperhidrosis, 83% of the patients reported as tolerable or somewhat tolerable associated with major limitation of quality of life, which it was poor or very poor in 82% of cases. Postoperative compensatory hyperhidrosis occurred in 78% of patients, but it was regarded as invisible or barely noticeable for 85% of these patients, classifying it as acceptable. In 15% of patients, the compensatory sweating was classified as disruptive. Conclusion: thoracoscopic sympathectomy improves the quality of life of patients with primary hyperhidrosis. The transitional compensatory hyperhidrosis occurred in most patients, but did not improve significantly the quality of life.