title: Transthoracic sympathectomy.
abstract: Excision of the upper thoracic sympathetic chain can be performed effectively and safely by a transthoracic approach. The most valuable indication is for severe idiopathic hyperhidrosis of the hands for which it produces a most satisfactory and lasting relief. It is also indicated for severe Raynaud's phenomenon that does not respond to conservative measures but here there is a tendency to progressive relapse following surgery so that only about half the patients show improvement several years later.
mesh_terms: D005728:Ganglia, Sympathetic / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D006945:Hyperhidrosis / Q000628:therapy*; D011928:Raynaud Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D013562:Sympathectomy / Q000379:methods*