Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy

Aim: To assess the high-level literature available on endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) for hyperhidrosis.

Conclusions and results: A lack of high-quality randomized trial evidence on ETS makes it difficult to judge the safety and effectiveness of this technique. Several potential safety issues are associated with this procedure.

Recommendations: None.

Methods: The literature was systematically searched to identify available, current, English-language, systematic reviews and health technology assessments. Databases used were York CRD, Entrez PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Trip database, and NLH National Library of Guidelines. We used key items from the QUOROM statement to assess the quality of the identified systematic reviews. Two systematic reviews were identified.

Further research/reviews required: ASERNIP-S suggests that a full systematic review including all available comparative and case series information, together with clinical input, should be undertaken to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive assessment of the safety and effectiveness of ETS.

Written by: Amber Watt, ASERNIP-S, Australia

INAHTA Brief issue: 2009/178

Agency: ASERNIP-S, Australian Safety and Efficacy Register of New Interventional Procedures -Surgical
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Reference:

Report no. 71. ISBN 978-0-9806299-6-5.
Other publications:
on Skin and Connective Tissue Diseases
on Surgical Procedures, Operative
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