Aspiration hydrectomy (synonym: sweat gland suction) is a surgical procedure to remove the sweat glands in the armpit area in case of excessive sweat production. In Germany, about five million people suffer from the condition, which is called idiopathic axillary hyperhidrosis. Patients who have this condition sweat so much that it is extremely uncomfortable for themselves and those around them. This leads to stigmatization and a high level of suffering.
Indications (areas of application)
- Idiopathic axillary hyperhidrosis
Aspiration hydrectomy, which is similar to liposuction (liposuction) in how it is performed, can provide patients with tremendous relief and a consistent sweat reduction of 80-95%.
Before the surgery
Prior to surgery, a detailed patient interview, laboratory check, and in elderly patients, an ECG should be performed. The patient should not take acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), sleeping pills, or alcohol for seven to 10 days before surgery. Acetylsalicylic acid and also other painkillers delay blood clotting and thus increase bleeding. Smokers should begin to reduce nicotine consumption as much as possible four weeks before surgery to avoid jeopardizing wound healing.
The surgical procedure
Aspiration hydrectomy is a good alternative to other methods, this includes Botox injection to eliminate the nervous supply to the glands. As mentioned above, the procedure is similar to liposuction. The goal of the treatment is to remove the sweat glands as well as the nerve plexuses that supply the glands. This is done by suction curettage.
The preparation of the patient for the procedure is as follows: The patient is lying on the operating table with arms folded backwards so that the armpits are exposed. These are shaved, disinfected and sterilely covered. For the anesthesia, a so-called tumescent anesthesia is performed, a form of local anesthesia (local anesthetic) in which a highly diluted local anesthetic is injected in large quantities into the subcutaneous fatty tissue until there is a reservoir and the skin lifts from the subcutaneous fatty tissue. This facilitates the procedure.
The cannulas for sweat gland aspiration are inserted through two stab incisions. Now, quite superficially, directly at the border with the dermis, the tissue is suctioned along with the glands and the nerve plexuses. After the suction is completed, the small wounds are closed and a dressing is applied to absorb wound secretions and have a compressive effect on the surgical area to prevent a large hematoma (bruise) or swelling.
After surgery
After surgery, the patient is treated with antibiotics and compression of the armpits is continued for several days. The ability to work is restored after a short time, but the patient should avoid going to the solarium, sauna or swimming pool.
Benefits
Sweat gland suction is a useful and very effective procedure to counteract the unpleasant consequences of hyperhidrosis. The patient’s self-esteem benefits enormously and psychological stress is prevented.
