Sympathectomy

Description

Sympathectomy is a surgical treatment that aims to radically resolve the problem of chronic pain by cutting the nerves responsible for the affected area.

The procedure involves endoscopy, a modern technique that is regarded as "less invasive" surgery. Access is gained to the target area through Band-Aid sized hole(s) and an overnight stay in hospital may be required.

Notes

Comments

My boyfriend had a sympathectomy 5 years ago when he was 30 after trauma right below his right collarbone. He felt fine for 9 months, and then the pain started. Ever since then his upper body, and arms and hands, are in chronic pain. Recently, the back of his neck has been hurting. His hands and chest are usually very swollen. He is not doing well as far as the pain goes despite the 12 different meds he is on. We now know the sympathectomy should never have been done, but at the time the doctors did not know any better. Meggie - USA

I don't know if this will help or hinder people going for treatment. In 1993 I was diagnosed with RSD in my left arm/hand. After a series of Stellate Ganglion Blocks that helped with pain relief on a temporary basis it was decided to try a series of 4 Guanethidine Blocks. I did not find this procedure to be of any help at all, but I did do the whole series of 4 just in case. That same year I underwent a Thoracic Sympathectomy which caused numerous painful problems some transient and some permanent and did absolutely nothing for any pain relief for the RSD. I have now developed RSD in my Right Arm and have started undergoing another series of Stellite Ganglion Blocks, so far I have only had 4. I am prepared to have these as long as they give me some relief but will not undergo another Thoracic Sympathectomy. Ginnie - Canada