Sympathectomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting, clipping, or removing part of the sympathetic nerve chain to reduce overactive nerve signals. It is commonly performed to treat conditions such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), severe facial blushing, or certain pain and circulation disorders.
The procedure is usually done using a minimally invasive technique called Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy (ETS), where small incisions are made and a camera is used to guide the surgeon. This approach allows for less pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery compared to open surgery.