Thoracoscopic (upper thoracic) sympathectomy for primary palmar hyperhidrosis in children

Primary palmar hyperhidrosis is a disabling disorder that starts in childhood and causes physical and psychological inconvenience. Conservative treatment is not effective in severe cases. Thoracoscopic sympathectomy is the treatment of choice. It is a safe minimally invasive procedure with good results. There are few reports in the UK regarding surgical treatment in children. Post-operative compensatory hyperhidrosis of the trunk and thighs occurs in up to 50% of cases. We report on three cases involving six procedures.