Can Sympathetic Nerve Block Be Reversed After Surgery?

Can the sympathetic nerve be reconnected after being blocked?

Hello! A few years ago, I underwent thoracoscopic sympathetic nerve block surgery due to axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating in the armpits, but not much sweating in the hands) based on my doctor's recommendation.
After the surgery, I found that I still had excessive sweating in my armpits and continued to experience body odor, but my hands became very dry, requiring me to frequently apply hand cream for moisture.
I regret having this surgery.
Is it possible to reconnect the sympathetic nerves after the block? What would the approximate cost be?

canny, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/02/22

Dr. Shao Guoning reply Neurosurgery

Sympathetic nerve block cannot reconnect the nerves; it only allows for waiting for nerve regeneration.
Generally, partial regeneration can occur within two years, and the palm may become slightly moist.

Reply Date: 2002/02/22

More Info

The sympathetic nerve block surgery you underwent is a procedure that aims to reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) by interrupting the sympathetic nerves that control sweat glands. While this surgery can be effective for some patients, it does come with potential side effects and complications, as you've experienced.
To address your primary concern: once the sympathetic nerves have been cut or blocked, they cannot be "reconnected" or reversed. The body may experience some degree of nerve regeneration over time, but this is often limited and varies from person to person. Typically, the nerves may partially regenerate within two years, which might lead to some improvement in the dryness of your hands, but it is unlikely to restore normal function or sweating in the areas that were treated.

The phenomenon you are experiencing, where your hands have become excessively dry while the sweating in your armpits persists, is known as compensatory sweating. This occurs because the body attempts to maintain homeostasis by redistributing sweat production to other areas after the sympathetic nerves have been interrupted. Unfortunately, this means that while one area may become drier, others may continue to sweat excessively.

Regarding the costs associated with reversing the effects of the surgery, there are no established procedures to "undo" a sympathetic nerve block. If you are looking for alternative treatments to manage your symptoms, options may include:
1. Medications: Anticholinergic medications can help reduce sweating, but they may have side effects, including dry mouth and blurred vision.

2. Botox Injections: Botulinum toxin injections can temporarily block the nerves that cause sweating and may be effective for hyperhidrosis.

3. Iontophoresis: This is a non-invasive treatment that uses electrical currents to reduce sweating in the hands and feet.

4. Microwave Therapy: This method destroys sweat glands using microwave energy.

5. Surgery: In some cases, additional surgical options may be considered, but these would typically involve different approaches and may also carry risks.

It's essential to consult with a specialist in hyperhidrosis or a neurologist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and discuss potential treatment options tailored to your situation.

In conclusion, while sympathetic nerve block surgery cannot be reversed, there are various management strategies available for the symptoms you are experiencing. It is crucial to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider about your concerns and explore the best options for your specific case.

Similar Q&A

Reversing Compensatory Sweating: Can Previous Surgery Tools Be Removed?

Hello, Doctor. I underwent a surgery for palmar hyperhidrosis 13 years ago. At that time, the doctor informed me that if I could not accept the compensatory sweating that might occur post-surgery, this new type of surgery would not require nerve destruction and could be reversed ...

Dr. Ding Xianwei reply Neurosurgery
I am not familiar with your surgery, so I cannot provide an answer. I sincerely apologize.

Understanding Sympathectomy: Procedure, Costs, and Recovery Insights

Does your hospital perform sympathetic nerve resection surgery? I often experience facial flushing, which causes significant distress. Thank you! How difficult is the surgery, and what are the costs involved? How many days is the recovery period? What are the expected outcomes? T...

Dr. Xiao Furen reply Neurosurgery
Our hospital performs sympathetic nerve resection surgery, which is an endoscopic procedure for primary hyperhidrosis. The costs can be covered by health insurance and are generally within an acceptable range. Typically, patients are admitted today, undergo surgery tomorrow, and ...

Post-Surgery Concerns: Understanding Chest Discomfort After Hand Sweat Surgery

Hello Dr. Hsu, I am your patient with hyperhidrosis. It has been a week since my surgery last Friday. Although the surgery was successful and my hand sweating has significantly improved, I have been experiencing persistent "chest tightness" that has not improved. This...

Dr. Xu Xianda reply Neurosurgery
Hello Mr. Chen: The soreness in your right chest and back is due to the discovery during surgery that there were venous vessels crossing over your sympathetic nerves (the nerves that control sweating). During the sympathetic nerve resection, more time was spent on cauterization t...

Can Endoscopic Sympathetic Nerve Block Help Treat Facial Flushing?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if endoscopic sympathetic nerve block can be used to treat the problem of facial flushing? Are there hospitals in Taiwan that perform this surgery specifically for facial flushing? Thank you!

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
I haven't heard of it.