The Committee noted that techniques of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) vary in the way in which the sympathetic chain is dealt with and the precise extent of the sympathectomy for primary hyperhidrosis of the upper limb. These variations may affect the efficacy and safety outcomes of this procedure.
The Committee noted that the primary indication for ETS is palmar hyperhidrosis. Axillary hyperhidrosis frequently coexists with this, but it is seldom the primary indication for using the procedure because its benefit is somewhat less assured.
The Committee received and considered comments from patients, some of whom described severe distress as a result of side effects following this procedure.