Sympathectomy: A Surgical Intervention That Reshapes Your Heart

Sympathectomy : A Surgical Intervention That Reshapes Your Heart

Sympathectomy is a medical procedure we hear about often but many people do not fully understand. However, it plays an important role in heart health. In this article, we will examine in detail what sympathectomy is, how it is performed and in what cases it is required.

What is Sympathectomy?

Sympathectomy is a surgical procedure that affects the body's sympathetic nervous system. This system controls heart rate, blood pressure and other automatic functions. Sympathectomy is often used to treat certain medical conditions and involves surgically cutting out parts of this system.

Sympathectomy Types:

There are different types of sympathectomy, and each is used to treat different medical problems. Below, we will examine the two most common types:

• Thoracic Sympathectomy: This procedure is frequently used to treat problems such as excessive sweating in the hands and armpits and excessive heart palpitations during excitement. Sympathetic nerves are intervened in the chest area.
• Hypertension Sympathectomy: Used to treat high blood pressure, this procedure involves cutting certain sections of sympathetic nerves.

Who is it suitable for?

Sympathectomy may be an option for individuals with certain medical conditions. However, the risks and benefits of this procedure are different for each patient. Therefore, it is important to meet with a doctor and create a personalized treatment plan.

Sympathectomy Procedure:

Sympathectomy is a surgical procedure. It is performed unilaterally or bilaterally under the armpit with 2 or 3 0.5-1 cm incisions using an endoscopic or robotic closed surgery technique. Patients can be discharged on the same day or the next day. 

Risks and Side Effects:

Like any surgical intervention, Sympathectomy carries risks. The risk of surgery is extremely low for those performed for hand and armpit sweating. Excessive drying of hands may occur. In patients whose heart rhythm is irregular and the procedure is performed to regulate the rhythm, more caution should be taken due to the underlying heart disease.  

Sympathectomy may be an effective option for treating certain medical conditions. However, it is important for each patient to consult a physician to determine whether they are suitable. This article aims to provide information about what sympathectomy is, how it is performed and who it is suitable for.