Effects of lumbar sympathetic nerve modulation guided by computed tomography for treating female pelvic limb hyperhidrosis

Abstract

A total of 17 cases with pelvic limb hyperhidrosis were selected for lumbar sympathetic nerve modulation. The puncture of lumbar sympathetic nerve was guided by computed tomography (CT) through the gap of L2-3 until the needle tip reached the lateral of the second or third lumbar vertebra body and outside of psoas major. A mixture of 1% lidocaine 3 ml and 30% Iohexol injection 0.3 ml was injected. If the diffusion of lidocaine was observed between lumbar vertebra body and psoas major. After 15 min, 5 ml of absolute alcohol was injected to modulate the lumbar sympathetic nerve. After 5 min, oximetry-derived perfusion index of toe and sole temperature increased (5.9±1.4) folds and (4.16±0.89)℃ on average respectively. Pelvic limb hyperhidrosis was all cured within 6 months and one case recurred after a year. There were no occurrences of complications. Lumbar sympathetic nerve modulation guided by CT may be used for treating female pelvic limbs hyperhidrosis. Key words: Hyperhidrosis; Sympathectomy, chemical