Excess sweating can become embarrassing, especially in public places. You may be subjected to discomfort and emotional burdens stemming from consistent sweat gland secretions, commonly referred to as Hyperhidrosis, where the body produces more sweat than needed to regulate temperatures.
Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy surgery (commonly referred to as ETS surgery) is the common solution to this bodily disorder. Our seasoned team helps you to treat and recover from Hyperhidrosis with our ETS surgery and ETS reversal surgeries to address sympathetic nervous system dysregulation and hyperhidrotic symptoms.
What are ETS Surgery and ETS Reversal Surgery?
Every patient has a different body response to Hyperhidrosis. Some feel anxious, while others may experience compensatory sweating.
ETS Surgery
ETS surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which small incisions are made, usually in the underarm area, and an endoscope is inserted to access the thoracic sympathetic nerve chain. The surgeon then cuts, cauterizes, clamps, or otherwise interrupts specific segments of the nerve chain to reduce excessive stimulation of the eccrine sweat glands responsible for sweating.
Key Features
Performed through general anesthesia.
- – Performed through general anesthesia.
- – Mostly targets areas with the most sweat, such as the armpits or the body joints.
- – The drying effect on the targeted areas is usually immediate.
- – The process usually takes 45 minutes to 2 hours to complete.
ETS Reversal Surgery
ETS reversal surgery is an advanced, highly specialised microscopic procedure to help alleviate the debilitating side effects of ETS surgeries like compensatory sweating, extreme dryness, and temperature intolerance.
Key Features
- – Performed using advanced robotic platforms, such as the Da Vinci systems.
- – Recovery time is usually between 4 and 6 months after surgery.
- – Aims to provide relief and restoration rather than a complete reversal from your original state.
Who is a Good Candidate for ETS Surgery?
Not everyone with Hyperhidrosis requires ETS surgery or ETS reversal surgery. You may consider ETS reversal surgery if you are experiencing severe side effects following ETS surgery, such as compensatory sweating, temperature intolerance, or excessive dryness.
Surgical History
Ideal for candidates whose sympathetic nerves were previously clipped, cut, or burned during ETS surgery.
Good General Health
Candidates with optimal health conditions but facing severe sweating.
Undergoing Major Side Effects
Patients suffering from major side effects like brain fog, lack of energy, or emotional blunting.
Realistic Expectations
Patients with a realistic perception that a 100% original body state is not possible.
How is ETS Surgery Performed?
ETS surgery is typically performed using various surgical tools, endoscopy (the thin pipe), a miniature camera, and small titanium clips (depending on the condition).
– Anesthesia and Positioning
The patient is placed in a semi-upright position on the OR bed. General anesthesia is administered based on the patient’s overall health condition.
– Incision and Port Placement
Two small cuts are made, usually through the armpits, where an endoscope equipped with a miniature camera is inserted.
– Lung Deflation
The lung on the targeted side is temporarily deflated to get a clearer view of the sympathetic nerves.
– Nerve Targeting
Typically, T2 or T3 are targeted for facial sweating; T2 or T4 for sweaty palms; and T3 or T5 for armpit sweating.
– Interruption
The targeted sympathetic nerve is interrupted through cutting, cauterization, or the placement of titanium clips.
– Closing
Lungs are inflated; surgery instruments are removed; and incisions are stitched together. Subsequently, the procedure is repeated on the other side of the body.
What to Expect When Getting Ready for ETS Surgery?
Before ETS surgery, the patient is required to undergo a combination of thorough medical evaluations, medication adjustments, and understanding the surgical process.
– Prior Treatment
Patients must undertake non-surgical options first before opting for ETS surgery, such as conservative management and pharmacological therapy.
– Medical Evaluation
A thorough physical exam, blood tests, ECG, or lung imaging is performed.
– Medical Adjustments
Patients are usually advised to stop taking blood thinners and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
– Fasting
Patients are advised not to consume food for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery.
What Results Can Patients Expect After ETS Surgery?
Patients undergoing ETS surgery can expect immediate relief from excessive palm, face, or underarm sweating.
– Reduced Sweating
Most patients experience a significant reduction in excessive sweating shortly after the procedure.
– Rapid Improvement
Many patients have indicated noticeable drier skin in their hands, underarms, or face immediately after surgery.
– Enhanced Confidence
Often, patients feel more confident in social and professional settings.
– Durable Outcomes
Results are usually long-lasting, though some side effects may occur, depending on the patient’s health conditions.
Who Chooses Prospero Medical for ETS Surgery in Turkey?
Prospero Medical has become one of the leading medical travel specialists in Turkey with its seasoned team of surgeons and paramedical staff for endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) surgeries.
– Clinical Expertise
We possess extensive knowledge of Hyperhidrosis, ETS procedures, and non-surgical alternatives.
– Cross-Cultural Communication
We help bridge language and cultural barriers through clear communication for international patients.
– Logistical Coordination
We are skilled in arranging travel, accommodation, hospital scheduling, and follow-up care.
– Ethical Patient Advocacy
We are committed to prioritising patient safety, informed consent, and transparent discussions of ETS Surgery: Benefits, risks and What to Expect.
Final Thoughts: ETS Surgery for Better Quality of Life
Excessive sweating stemming from Hyperhidrosis may hinder the patient’s daily life. Modern medical solutions help address these challenges through advanced and innovative treatment approaches.
At Prospero Medical, our holistic ETS and ETS reversal surgeries are designed to provide you with safe, less invasive, and low-morbidity results. We help patients lead healthier, more comfortable lives with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Join this legacy of Prospero Medical and take a step ahead toward a healthier future.
FAQs
1. Is ETS a major surgery?
Yes, ETS is a major surgery and usually the last resort for severe excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis).
2. Is ETS reversal surgery painful?
Although general anesthesia is given, which limits the pain, some patients may experience mild to moderate soreness, chest tightness, and aching between the shoulder blades.
3. Is ETS surgery a permanent solution for excessive sweating?
Yes, ETS surgery is a permanent solution to prevent excessive sweating conditions, which vary from patient to patient.
4. What are the most common side effects of ETS surgery?
The most common side effects of ETS surgery include compensatory sweating, gustatory sweating, dry upper body, heart rate fluctuations, Horner’s syndrome, and systemic/neurocognitive effects.
5. Can I travel shortly after ETS surgery?
Yes, you can often travel after ETS surgery (often within a few days for international patients), as the procedure is minimally invasive and generally involves a shorter recovery period.
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