Sunday, October 12, 2008

Centre for Clinical Effectiveness and Monash University

No systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or clinical trials that evaluated the
effectiveness of endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy for treating facial
blushing were identified. However, we have identified four case series
related to the request (Drott et al. 1998, Rex et al. 1998, Telaranta 1998,
Yilmaz et al. 1996). These studies were conducted in three countries
(Sweden, Finland and the Netherlands).

The four case series were not critically appraised because they are prone
to bias and have significant methodological problems. These studies
represent level IV evidence according to the NHMRC criteria and one
should not draw firm conclusions from their findings.

To date, the benefits or side effects associated with endoscopic thoracic
sympathectomy for treating facial blushing have not been properly
evaluated and reported.


Omar Ahmed PhD
Centre for Clinical Effectiveness
Monash Medical Centre
Locked Bag 29
Clayton VIC 3168
Australia

Acupuncture after sympathectomy?

Sympathectomy abolishes trigger points activity.
Dr Simon L Strauss
http://www.pain-education.com/100125.php

Perioperative Thermoregulation

Neuraxial (spinal and epidural) anesthesia also impairs central thermoregulatory control via mechanisms that remain unclear. Regional anesthesia also causes a sympathectomy that prevents lower-body vasoconstriction and paralysis that prevents lower-body shivering. Consequently, hypothermia during neuraxial anesthesia is as common, and nearly as serious, as during general anesthesia.
Daniel I. Sesler, M.D.
Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.


http://www.anzca.edu.au/events/asm/asm2007/Sessler3.htm

Long QT treatment in AU

In patients who do not respond to medication, the insertion of a pacemaker or the automatic defibrillator, or the surgical cutting of certain nerves in the neck, called cervico-thoracic sympathectomy, can be utilised.
http://www.sads.org.au/sads_info.html