Thoracic sympathectomy for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis: systematic review and proportional meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Primary hyperhidrosis is a disorder that involves excessive sweat production, which has a negative impact on the quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy (VATS) for treating primary axillary hyperhidrosis (PAH) and determine which level of ganglion resection offers the best outcome. METHOD: This was a systematic review and proportional meta-analysis of observational studies. The result was evaluated for satisfaction, control of symptoms, compensatory sweating and complications. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare the sympathetic trunk resection at high and low levels. RESULTS: Thirteen studies were selected with a total of 1463 patients. The satisfaction rate was 92% (95% CI = 88-95%, I2=47.5%), the symptom control rate was 96% (95% CI = 93-99%, I2=48.2%), and the presence of compensatory sweating could not be assessed because of high heterogeneity among studies. The complications were rare. CONCLUSION: This review demonstrated that thoracic sympathectomy by VATS is a viable and safe option for the treatment of PAH. There was no difference between high and lower levels of resection. However, the estimation of the effect is quite uncertain because the quality of evidence was extremely low.Key messagePure axillary hyperhidrosis has great potential to compromise quality of life.Surgery should be indicated only when clinical treatment fails.Thoracic sympathectomy by video-assisted thoracoscopy is a viable and safe option for the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis.

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

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.

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.

Long-term results of the treatment of primary hyperhidrosis with oxybutynin: follow-up of 1,658 cases.

BACKGROUND: Hyperhidrosis (HH) is characterized by exaggerated sweating in a specific region due to hyperfunction of the sweat glands. In the late 2000s, we started treating patients with an anticholinergic, oxybutynin, that was not being used until then. OBJECTIVES: To present, after 12 years of utilizing this medication in our service, the substantial experience obtained with the use of oxybutynin as an initial treatment of HH in a large series of 1,658 patients. METHODS: We analyzed 1,658 patients treated with oxybutynin for HH from May 2006 to June 2018. The patients were divided into four groups according to the main site of HH: the plantar group, the axillary group, the facial group, and the palmar group. To measure the degree of satisfaction, a quality of life (QoL) questionnaire was used. RESULTS: Pre-treatment QoL was poor or very poor in more than 94% of the cases, and the palmar group had the worst quality of life. After treatment, we observed an improvement in the quality of life in 77% of patients. More than 70% of the patients in all groups present moderate or optimal subjective clinical improvement in sweating after treatment. The group with the best result was the facial group. Intense dry mouth was reported in 24.9% of all patients in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study included a large number of patients followed for a long period and demonstrated the good effectiveness of treatment with oxybutynin for hyperhidrosis in the main sites of sweating.

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.

A systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of lumbar sympathectomy for plantar hyperhidrosis.

On July 25, 2017, we conducted an extensive database tracking to identify all studies published from January 1990 to July 2017. Screening updates were performed until December 2017. RESULTS: There were no deaths, and the resolution of symptoms of primary plantar hyperhidrosis (PPH) occurred in 92% of patients after mechanical sympathectomy. A total of 177 patients (44%) were reported to have mild to severe compensatory sweating after a mean 6 months follow-up. The preservation of L2 did not interfere with the primary outcome, and it is possible to perform lumbar sympathectomy in men with L2 preservation, achieving satisfactory cure results of PPH, minimizing the risk of sexual dysfunction. There were no deaths, and the resolution of symptoms of PPH occurred in 10% of patients after chemical sympathicolysis after a mean 6 months follow-up. A total of 13 patients (12.5%) were reported to have mild to severe compensatory sweating using the same technique. CONCLUSION: The mechanical lumbar sympathectomy is effective and safe and improves quality of life, evaluated by the high symptom resolution of PPH and low rate of complications. The chemical sympathicolysis in the immediate postoperative period presented satisfactory results; however, it was shown to be significantly less effective than the mechanical approach in a follow-up of at least 6 months.

Evaluation of anxiety and depression prevalence in patients with primary severe hyperhidrosis.

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis (PH) can lead to mood changes due to the inconveniences it causes. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the existence of anxiety and depression in patients with severe primary hyperhidrosis who sought treatment at a medical office. METHODS: The questionnaire "Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale" was used for 197 individuals, in addition to the chi square test and Fisher exact test, p <0.05. RESULTS: There was an increased prevalence of anxiety (49.6%) but not of depression (11.2%) among patients with PH, with no link to gender, age or amount of affected areas. Palmar and plantar primary hyperhidrosis were the most frequent but when associated with the presence of anxiety, the most frequent were the axillary (p = 0.02) and craniofacial (p = 0.02) forms. There was an association between patients with depression and anxiety (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: the involvement of Primary hyperhidrosis was responsible for a higher prevalence of anxiety than that described among the general population and patients with other chronic diseases. Depression had a low prevalence rate, while mild and moderate forms were the most common and frequently associated with anxiety. The degree of anxiety was higher in mild and moderate types than in the severe form.

Evaluation of anxiety and depression prevalence in patients with primary severe hyperhidrosis

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis (PH) can lead to mood changes due to the inconveniences it causes. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the existence of anxiety and depression in patients with severe primary hyperhidrosis who sought treatment at a medical office. METHODS: The questionnaire "Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale" was used for 197 individuals, in addition to the chi square test and Fisher exact test, p <0.05. RESULTS: There was an increased prevalence of anxiety (49.6%) but not of depression (11.2%) among patients with PH, with no link to gender, age or amount of affected areas. Palmar and plantar primary hyperhidrosis were the most frequent but when associated with the presence of anxiety, the most frequent were the axillary (p = 0.02) and craniofacial (p = 0.02) forms. There was an association between patients with depression and anxiety (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: the involvement of Primary hyperhidrosis was responsible for a higher prevalence of anxiety than that described among the general population and patients with other chronic diseases. Depression had a low prevalence rate, while mild and moderate forms were the most common and frequently associated with anxiety. The degree of anxiety was higher in mild and moderate types than in the severe form. .

Quality of life before hyperhidrosis treatment as a predictive factor for oxybutynin treatment outcomes in palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis.

BACKGROUND: Studies have suggested that quality of life (QOL) evaluation before video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy for patients with hyperhidrosis may serve as a predictive factor for positive postoperative outcomes. Our study aims to analyze if this tendency is also observed in patients treated with oxybutynin for palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. METHODS: Five hundred sixty-five patients who submitted to a protocol treatment with oxybutynin were retrospectively analyzed between January 2007 and January 2012 and were divided into 2 groups according to QOL assessment before treatment. The groups consisted of 176 patients with "poor" and 389 patients with "very poor" QOL evaluation before oxybutynin treatment. Outcomes involving improvements in QOL and clinical progression of hyperhidrosis were evaluated using a validated clinical questionnaire that was specifically designed to assess satisfaction in patients with excessive sweating. RESULTS: Improvements in hyperhidrosis after oxybutynin were observed in 65.5% of patients with very poor pretreatment QOL scores and in 75% of patients with poor pretreatment QOL scores, and the only adverse event associated with oxybutynin treatment was dry mouth, which was observed with greater intensity in patients with very poor initial QOL evaluation. CONCLUSION: Improvements in hyperhidrosis after oxybutynin treatment were similar in both groups, suggesting that QOL before treatment is not a predictive factor for clinical outcomes, contrasting with surgical results that disclose significantly better results in patients with initially poorer QOL analysis.

Effectiveness of oxybutynin for treatment of hyperhidrosis in overweight and obese patients.

OBJECTIVE: Until the present moment, the lack of efficient therapeutic options available for hyperhidrosis treatment in obese patients has left this population without prospect of clinical or quality of life (QOL) improvements. Outcomes of oxybutynin treatment for overweight and obese patients with hyperhidrosis are unknown. This study aims to investigate the results related to clinical and QOL improvements in this specific population, submitted to a 12-week protocol treatment with oxybutynin. METHODS: 559 patients with palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis, routinely followed in this service, were divided into the groups, according to their body mass index (BMI) (<25kg/m(2); 25 < BMI < 30kg/m(2), > 30kg/m(2)). Improvements in QOL and in the level of hyperhidrosis were analyzed after 12 weeks of protocol treatment with oxybutynin. These parameters were investigated using a scoring system based on a scientifically validated clinical questionnaire, applied before and after treatment. RESULTS: 67.8% of the overweight sample group and 63% of the obese patients presented "partial" or "great" improvement in the level of hyperhidrosis. Over 65% of patients demonstrated improvement in QOL ("much better" or "slightly better") for all three groups, with no statistical difference between them. The only adverse event associated with oxybutynin was dry mouth, observed in 63.0% of the patients. CONCLUSION: Overweight and obese patients with palmar or axillary hyperhidrosis present significant improvement in QOL after treatment with oxybutynin, and the results are comparable to those of normal weight individuals.

Effectiveness of oxybutynin for treatment of hyperhidrosis in overweight and obese patients / Eficácia da oxibutina no tratamento de hiperidrose em pacientes com sobrepeso e obesos

OBJECTIVE: Until the present moment, the lack of efficient therapeutic options available for hyperhidrosis treatment in obese patients has left this population without prospect of clinical or quality of life (QOL) improvements. Outcomes of oxybutynin treatment for overweight and obese patients with hyperhidrosis are unknown. This study aims to investigate the results related to clinical and QOL improvements in this specific population, submitted to a 12-week protocol treatment with oxybutynin. METHODS: 559 patients with palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis, routinely followed in this service, were divided into the groups, according to their body mass index (BMI) (< 25 kg/m²; 25 < bmi < 30 kg/m², > 30 kg/m²). Improvements in QOL and in the level of hyperhidrosis were analyzed after 12 weeks of protocol treatment with oxybutynin. These parameters were investigated using a scoring system based on a scientifically validated clinical questionnaire, applied before and after treatment. RESULTS: 67.8% of the overweight sample group and 63% of the obese patients presented "partial" or "great" improvement in the level of hyperhidrosis. Over 65% of patients demonstrated improvement in QOL ("much better" or "slightly better") for all three groups, with no statistical difference between them. The only adverse event associated with oxybutynin was dry mouth, observed in 63.0% of the patients. CONCLUSION: Overweight and obese patients with palmar or axillary hyperhidrosis present significant improvement in QOL after treatment with oxybutynin, and the results are comparable to those of normal weight individuals.

OBJETIVO: A falta de alternativas terapêuticas para o tratamento de pacientes obesos com Hiperidrose hiperidrose deixa essa população sem perspectiva de melhorar suas condições clínicas e qualidade de vida. Resultados do tratamento com oxibutinina especificamenteempacientes com sobrepeso ou obesidade são desconhecidos até o presente momento. Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar os resultados relacionados à melhora clínica e qualidade de vida dessa população, após um protocolo de tratamento de 12 semanas com oxibutinina. MÉODOS: 559 pacientes com hiperidrose palmar e axilar, foram divididos em três grupos, de acordo com seu índice de massa corporal (IMC) (< 25 kg/m²; 25 < IMC < 30 kg/m², > 30 kg/m²). Dados sobre evolução na qualidade de vida e nível de hiperidrose foram avaliados com base em um questionário validado cientificamente, aplicado antes e após o tratamento com oxibutinina. RESULTADOS: 67.8% dos pacientes com sobrepeso e 63% dos obesos apresentaram melhora clínica "grande" ou "parcial" no nível da hiperidrose. Mais de 65% dos pacientes relataram melhora na qualidade de vida ("muito melhor" ou "um pouco melhor") para os três grupos, sem diferença estatística entre eles. O único efeito colateral observado foi boca seca, presente em 63.0% da amostra. CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes com sobrepeso e obesidade portadores de hiperidrose palmar ou axilar apresentaram melhora significativa na qualidade de vida após o tratamento com oxibutinina, sendo os resultados comparáveis aos de indivíduos com peso normal.

Oxybutynin treatment for hyperhidrosis: a comparative analysis between genders / Oxibutinina para tratamento de hiperidrose: análise comparativa entre gêneros

OBJECTIVE: To assess the results of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis treatment in males and females using low doses of oxybutynin. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted in 395 women and 170 men followed up in our service with complaint of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. RESULTS: A total of 70% of patients in both groups presented partial or great improvement in the level of hyperhidrosis after treatment. The best results were obtained in the female group, in which 40% classified their improvement as "great". Approximately 70% of the patients in both groups improved their quality of life after medical therapy and 30% presented no change in condition. CONCLUSION: Gender is not a factor that significantly interferes in oxybutynin treatment results. Quality of life indices and clinical improvement level were similar in men and women.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados do tratamento com baixas doses de oxibutinina em homens e mulheres com hiperidrose palmar e axilar. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva de 395 mulheres e 170 homens acompanhados em nosso serviço com queixa de hiperidrose palmar e plantar, submetidos a um protocolo de 12 semanas de tratamento com oxibutinina. Melhora clínica da hiperidrose e da qualidade de vida foram estudadas por meio de um questionário específico, aplicado antes e após o tratamento. RESULTADOS: Dentre os pacientes em ambos os grupos, 70% apresentaram melhoria parcial ou grande no nível de hiperidrose após o tratamento. Os melhores resultados foram obtidos no grupo feminino, no qual 40% classificaram sua evolução como "ótima". Aproximadamente 70% dos pacientes em ambos os grupos melhoraram sua qualidade de vida após a terapia médica e 30% não apresentaram mudança da condição inicial. CONCLUSÃO: Gênero é um fator que não interfere significativamente nos resultados do tratamento com oxibutinina. Os índices de qualidade de vida e o grau de melhora clínica da hiperidrose foram semelhantes em homens e mulheres.

A randomized placebo-controlled trial of oxybutynin for the initial treatment of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis.

INTRODUCTION: Video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy provides excellent resolution of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis but is associated with compensatory hyperhidrosis. Low doses of oxybutynin, an anticholinergic medication that competitively antagonizes the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, can be used to treat palmar hyperhidrosis with fewer side effects. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effectiveness and patient satisfaction of oral oxybutynin at low doses (5 mg twice daily) compared with placebo for treating palmar hyperhidrosis. METHODS: This was prospective, randomized, and controlled study. From December 2010 to February 2011, 50 consecutive patients with palmar hyperhidrosis were treated with oxybutynin or placebo. Data were collected from 50 patients, but 5 (10.0%) were lost to follow-up. During the first week, patients received 2.5 mg of oxybutynin once daily in the evening. From days 8 to 21, they received 2.5 mg twice daily, and from day 22 to the end of week 6, they received 5 mg twice daily. All patients underwent two evaluations, before and after (6 weeks) the oxybutynin treatment, using a clinical questionnaire and a clinical protocol for quality of life. RESULTS: Palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis improved in >70% of the patients, and 47.8% of those presented great improvement. Plantar hyperhidrosis improved in >90% of the patients. Most patients (65.2%) showed improvements in their quality of life. The side effects were minor, with dry mouth being the most frequent (47.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis with oxybutynin is a good initial alternative for treatment given that it presents good results and improves quality of life.

Evaluation of quality of life over time among 453 patients with hyperhidrosis submitted to endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy.

OBJECTIVES: Current data do not provide enough information on how quality of life (QoL) evolves over time in cases of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS). The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether the immediate improvement in QoL after the surgery was sustained until the fifth postoperative year. METHODS: This was a prospective, nonrandomized and uncontrolled study. From March 2001 to December 2003, 475 consecutive patients with hyperhidrosis submitted to ETS were included. A QoL questionnaire was applied at the preoperative day, around the 30th postoperative day, and after the fifth year. RESULTS: After excluding 22 patients who did not answer all the questions, we analyzed 453 patients. Their ages ranged from 11 to 57 years old, with a mean of 25.3 + 7.9 years, including 297 female patients (65.6%). All patients were assessed on three occasions: before surgery, around the 30th postoperative day, and after the fifth postoperative year. The QoL before surgery was considered to be poor or very poor for all patients. The QoL around 30 days after surgery was better in 412 patients (90.9%), the same in 27 patients (6.0%), and worse in 14 patients (3.1%). After 5 years, 409 patients (90.3%) were better, 27 (6.0%) were the same, and 14 (3.1%) were worse. There were no differences between these postoperative times according to the McNemar statistical test. CONCLUSION: The patients had an immediate improvement in QoL after ETS, and this improvement was sustained until the fifth postoperative year.

Oxybutynin treatment for hyperhidrosis: a comparative analysis between genders.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the results of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis treatment in males and females using low doses of oxybutynin. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted in 395 women and 170 men followed up in our service with complaint of palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. RESULTS: A total of 70% of patients in both groups presented partial or great improvement in the level of hyperhidrosis after treatment. The best results were obtained in the female group, in which 40% classified their improvement as "great". Approximately 70% of the patients in both groups improved their quality of life after medical therapy and 30% presented no change in condition. CONCLUSION: Gender is not a factor that significantly interferes in oxybutynin treatment results. Quality of life indices and clinical improvement level were similar in men and women.

Tratamento da hiperidrose palmar com onabotulinumtoxinA veiculada por iontoforese ou fonoforese: relato de casos / Use of iontophoresis or phonophoresis for delivering onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of palmar hyperidrosis: a report on four cases

Hiperidrose palmar idiopática é doença frequente, que tem grande impacto na qualidade de vida dos pacientes, e seu tratamento definitivo (simpatectomia) associa-se a risco cirúrgico e efeitos adversos. Fármacos, como onabotulinumtoxinA, podem ser veiculados percutaneamente por iontoforese ou fonoforese e contribuir no tratamento da hiperidrose. Os autores apresentam quatro casos em que houve melhora objetiva e subjetiva da sudorese após dez sessões consecutivas de iontoforese ou fonoforese, sem evidências de efeitos adversos. Os resultados clínicos mantiveram-se por 16 semanas de observação após a interrupção do tratamento. Técnicas de veiculação percutânea de medicamentos devem ser percebidas como opções nos tratamentos dermatológicos.

Idiopathic palmar hyperhidrosis is a common disease that exerts a considerable effect on patients' quality of life. The definitive treatment of this condition (sympathectomy) is associated with some adverse effects and surgical risks. Drugs such as onabotulinumtoxinA can be percutaneously delivered by phonophoresis or by iontophoresis and may be useful in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. In this paper, the authors describe four cases in which an objective and subjective improvement in sweating was seen following 10 daily sessions of phonophoresis or iontophoresis. No adverse effects were reported. The clinical results achieved with treatment were maintained over 16 weeks of follow-up after the end of treatment. Percutaneous drug delivery techniques should be perceived as an option for the treatment of dermatologic conditions.

Calidad de vida en pacientes con hiperhidrosis primaria sometidos a simpatectomía videotoracoscópica / Quality of life after videothoracic simpathectomy in patients with primary hyperhidrosis

Introduction: Primary hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating that exceeds the physiological needs to maintain thermal homeostasis of the body. This study aims to assess the change in quality of life of patients operated on videothoracoscopic sympathectomy. Materials and Methods: We included all patients operated with this technique in the period between 2004 and 2010, in FACh Hospital. A standardized cuestionary was used to measure severity of hyperhidrosis and quality of life during pre and postoperative. Results: 61 patients, 57 percent female and mean age of 25 years. Preoperative sweating was barely tolerable or unacceptable in 81 percent, and preoperative quality of life was poor or very poor in 82 percent of patients. After surgery sweating was never noticed or tolerable at 85 percent and the quality of life was better in 84 percent of patients. 78 percent of patients developed compensatory sweating; however the 87 percent were satisfied with the outcome of surgery. Conclusion: Videothoracoscopic sympathectomy offers excellent results that are measurable in terms of improvement of quality of life, but often associated with the phenomenon of compensatory sweating. Despite the development of this sequel, the majorities of operated patients are satisfied with the surgical results and improve their quality of life.

Introducción: La hiperhidrosis primaria se caracteriza por sudoración excesiva que supera las necesidades fisiológicas para mantener la homeostasis térmica del cuerpo. El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar el cambio en la calidad de vida de los pacientes operados de simpatectomía videotoracoscópica. Material y Método: Estudio de tipo transversal del total de pacientes operados con esta técnica en el Hospital Fuerza Aérea de Chile (FACh) en el período entre 2004 y 2010. Se utilizó una encuesta estandarizada y validada en la literatura para medir severidad de la hiperhidrosis y calidad de vida en período pre y postoperatorio. Resultados: 61 pacientes, 57 por ciento de género femenino y promedio de edad 25 años. La sudoración preoperatoria era apenas tolerable o intolerable en 81 por ciento y la calidad de vida preoperatoria era pobre o muy pobre en 82 por ciento de los pacientes. Posterior a la cirugía la sudoración nunca se notaba o era tolerable en 85 por ciento y la calidad de vida era mejor en 84 por ciento de los pacientes. El 78 por ciento de los pacientes operados desarrolló sudoración compensatoria, sin embargo, el 87 por ciento de los pacientes estaban satisfechos con el resultado de la cirugía. Conclusión: La simpatectomía videotoracoscópica ofrece excelentes resultados que son medibles en términos de mejoría de la calidad de vida, pero asociado frecuentemente al fenómeno de sudoración compensatoria. Pese al desarrollo de esta secuela, la mayoría de los pacientes operados están satisfechos con los resultados quirúrgicos y mejoran su calidad de vida.

Thoracic sympathectomy at the level of the fourth and fifth ribs for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical results and the degree of satisfaction of patients submitted to thoracic sympathectomy at the level of the fourth and fifth ribs (R4-R5) for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis. METHODS: We included 118 patients diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis and having undergone axillary sympathectomy at the R4-R5 level between March of 2003 and December of 2007 at the Paraná Federal University Hospital de Clínicas, located in the city of Curitiba, Brazil. All procedures were carried out by the same surgeon. Data regarding the resolution of axillary hyperhidrosis and the degree of patient satisfaction with the surgical outcome, as well as compensatory hyperhidrosis in the early and late postoperative periods (after 7 days and after 12 months, respectively), were collected. RESULTS: Of the 118 patients evaluated, 99 (83.9%) and 81 (68.6%) showed complete resolution of the symptoms in the early and late postoperative periods, respectively. Compensatory hyperhidrosis occurred in 49 patients (41.5%) in the early postoperative period and in 77 (65.2%) in the late postoperative period. Of those 77, 55 (71.4%) categorized the compensatory hyperhidrosis as mild. In the early postoperative period, 110 patients (93.2%) were satisfied with the surgical results, and 104 (88.1%) remained so in the late postoperative period. CONCLUSIONS: Sympathectomy at the R4-R5 level is efficient in the resolution of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. The degree of patient satisfaction with the long-term surgical results is high. Mild compensatory hyperhidrosis is the main side effect associated with this technique.

Simpatectomia torácica ao nível de 4ª e 5ª costelas para o tratamento de hiper-hidrose axilar / Thoracic sympathectomy at the level of the fourth and fifth ribs for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis

OBJETIVO: Descrever os resultados clínicos e o grau de satisfação de pacientes submetidos à simpatectomia torácica ao nível de 4ª e 5ª costelas (R4-R5) para o tratamento da hiper-hidrose axilar. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos 118 pacientes com diagnóstico de hiper-hidrose axilar e submetidos à simpatectomia torácica ao nível de R4-R5, realizada por um único cirurgião, no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba (PR), entre março de 2003 e dezembro de 2007. Dados relativos à resolução da sudorese axilar, ao grau de satisfação com o resultado da cirurgia e ao efeito compensatório no pós-operatório precoce (7 dias) e tardio (1 ano) foram coletados. RESULTADOS: Dos 118 pacientes do estudo, 99 (83,9 por cento) e 81 (68,6 por cento) apresentaram resolução total dos sintomas no pós-operatório precoce e tardio, respectivamente. Houve efeito compensatório em 49 pacientes (41,5 por cento) no pós-operatório precoce e em 77 (65,2 por cento) no pós-operatório tardio. Desses 77, 55 (71,4 por cento) consideraram esses efeitos como leves. No pós-operatório precoce, 110 pacientes (93,2 por cento) estavam satisfeitos com os resultados da cirurgia, enquanto 104 pacientes (88,1 por cento) mantinham-se satisfeitos no pós-operatório tardio. CONCLUSÕES: A simpatectomia ao nível R4-R5 é eficaz na resolução da hiper-hidrose axilar primária. O grau de satisfação dos pacientes com os resultados em longo prazo é alto. O efeito compensatório leve é o principal efeito colateral relacionada a essa técnica.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical results and the degree of satisfaction of patients submitted to thoracic sympathectomy at the level of the fourth and fifth ribs (R4-R5) for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis. METHODS: We included 118 patients diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis and having undergone axillary sympathectomy at the R4-R5 level between March of 2003 and December of 2007 at the Paraná Federal University Hospital de Clínicas, located in the city of Curitiba, Brazil. All procedures were carried out by the same surgeon. Data regarding the resolution of axillary hyperhidrosis and the degree of patient satisfaction with the surgical outcome, as well as compensatory hyperhidrosis in the early and late postoperative periods (after 7 days and after 12 months, respectively), were collected. RESULTS: Of the 118 patients evaluated, 99 (83.9 percent) and 81 (68.6 percent) showed complete resolution of the symptoms in the early and late postoperative periods, respectively. Compensatory hyperhidrosis occurred in 49 patients (41.5 percent) in the early postoperative period and in 77 (65.2 percent) in the late postoperative period. Of those 77, 55 (71.4 percent) categorized the compensatory hyperhidrosis as mild. In the early postoperative period, 110 patients (93.2 percent) were satisfied with the surgical results, and 104 (88.1 percent) remained so in the late postoperative period. CONCLUSIONS: Sympathectomy at the R4-R5 level is efficient in the resolution of primary axillary hyperhidrosis. The degree of patient satisfaction with the long-term surgical results is high. Mild compensatory hyperhidrosis is the main side effect associated with this technique.

Use of iontophoresis or phonophoresis for delivering onabotulinumtoxinA in the treatment of palmar hyperidrosis: a report on four cases.

Idiopathic palmar hyperhidrosis is a common disease that exerts a considerable effect on patients' quality of life. The definitive treatment of this condition (sympathectomy) is associated with some adverse effects and surgical risks. Drugs such as onabotulinumtoxinA can be percutaneously delivered by phonophoresis or by iontophoresis and may be useful in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. In this paper, the authors describe four cases in which an objective and subjective improvement in sweating was seen following 10 daily sessions of phonophoresis or iontophoresis. No adverse effects were reported. The clinical results achieved with treatment were maintained over 16 weeks of follow-up after the end of treatment. Percutaneous drug delivery techniques should be perceived as an option for the treatment of dermatologic conditions.

A randomized trial of T3-T4 versus T4 sympathectomy for isolated axillary hyperhidrosis.

INTRODUCTION: Video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy (VATS) is one minimally invasive definitive treatment for axillary hyperhidrosis. Different techniques exist for controlling axillary sudoresis, but they are temporary and have high cost. This study was conducted to compare the initial results from sympathectomy using two distinct levels for treating axillary sudoresis: T3-T4 vs T4. METHODS: Sixty-two patients with axillary hyperhidrosis were prospectively randomized for denervation of T3-T4 or T4 alone. All patients were examined preoperatively and were followed-up at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. Evaluated were the axillary hyperhidrosis treatment, the presence, location, and severity of compensatory hyperhidrosis, and the quality of life. RESULTS: All the patients said that their axillary hyperhidrosis was successfully treated by the surgery after 6 months. There was no treatment failure. Compensatory hyperhidrosis was present in 29 patients (90.6%) of the T3-T4 group and in 17 T4 patients (56.7%) after 1 month. After 6 months, all the T3-T4 patients presented some degree of compensatory hyperhidrosis vs 13 T4 patients (43.3%). The severity of the compensatory hyperhidrosis was also lower in the T4 patients (P < . 01). The quality of life was poor in both groups before the surgery, and was equally improved in both groups after 1 and 6 months of follow-up. There were no deaths or significant postoperative complications nor a need for conversion to thoracotomy. CONCLUSION: Both techniques are effective for treating axillary hyperhidrosis, but the T4 group presented milder compensatory hyperhidrosis and had a greater satisfaction rate.