Video-endoscopic and mini-endoscopic sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis

Video-endoscopic sympathectomy (VES) is currently the method of choice for the minimally invasive treatment of hyperhidrosis involving the palms, armpit and facial areas. Over a 7-year period from 1991 to 1997 our technique of performing VES has evolved during the performance of 800 endoscopic sympathectomies from the use of 3 ports to a single 10-mm port to finally a 3-mm port using a mini-endoscope. In comparison to standard VES, mini-endoscopic sympathectomy is simpler, less invasive, causes less postoperative discomfort and consistently allows patients to return home the same day.