Quality of life evaluation following endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy for upper limb and facial hyperhydrosis.

In this prospective cohort study, the outcome of bilateral endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy (ETS) was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. 10 consecutive patients who underwent two-stage bilateral ETS for primary hyperhydrosis were assessed. Two patients had concomitant facial blushing. Symptomatic improvement was achieved in all patients. Statistical analysis (one-tailed Wilcoxon rank test) demonstrates a significant (p < 0.05) step-wise improvement in quality of life after each stage. This has not previously been described for two-stage bilateral ETS and confirms the suitability of this technique in the definitive management of refractory primary hyperhydrosis.