What is Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) or treatment of excessive sweating of the armpit and palms, and soles?

Excessive sweating, followed by bad smells, is one of the most annoying problems to anyone, which prevents the person from being in the community and causes them to lose their self-confidence. However, fortunately, there is a way to eliminate excessive sweating of armpits and palms, which will be explained in detail. For people who experience excessive hand sweating or facial erythema, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is a life-changing and miraculous procedure that helps them treat excessive sweating of the armpit and palms and restore their self-confidence. 

How is the sweetening of the armpit and palms and soles treated?

The secretion of sweat glands is controlled by sympathetic nerves originating within the thoracic cavity. Excessive activity of sympathetic nerves results in excessive sweating. Manipulation of these nerves reduces the excessive secretion of the perspiration glands. The sympathetic chain can be easily recognized in the thoracic cavity using a mini-scope known as a thoracoscope. Therefore, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) refers to the procedure performed for hyperhidrosis and facial erythema.

Why choose Mortaz Hospital for ETS?

ETS is performed by Dr. Kargar. Approximately 20 years ago, Dr. Kargar performed this operation for the first time in Iran and presented the results of his operations at a conference in Finland. In addition, the operation theaters of Mortaz Hospital are equipped with all the up-to-date medical equipment as well as the experienced staff of the operating room of Mortaz Hospital allows the surgeon to achieve the best outcome of the surgery. In addition, the patient recovery process is followed up until full recovery.

ETS procedure

ETS procedure is performed in the hospital under general anesthesia. Two small incisions are made in the armpit, through which two 5 mm ports are inserted into the body. The sympathetic nerve is accurately identified. Ganglions or the body of the corresponding neurons are destroyed, resulting in the drying of hands, armpits, and face (to eliminate excessive sweating of the legs, an incision is made in the abdominal area, and the sympathetic nerve is manipulated). The level of blood oxygen is constantly controlled, and no risk exists in this regard. To facilitate this process, a special endotracheal or respiratory tube is inserted by an anesthesiologist to ensure blood oxygenation. Small incisions are closed with only one suture, and a waterproof dressing is placed. Patients are generally discharged the next morning and often recover within a week.

ETS Post-operative care

ETS, performed using a minimally invasive technique, recovery occurs rapidly. The patient may experience chest discomfort slightly, though it is usually controlled by over-the-counter painkillers. Most patients feel comfortable within six hours of surgery, although they had better spend a night in the hospital. However, patient discharge depends on the physician's discretion.
Routine examinations are performed by the nursing staff of Mortaz Hospital after surgery. Painkillers can be used to relieve a patient’s pain. The patient can resume their normal diet after 4 hours. The presence of pain that is increased by coughing and sneezing is normal during the 2-3 days after surgery.