The goal of the surgery is to stop the sympathetic nervous system from sending signals to the hands. This is done by interrupting the sympathetic nerves that go to the hands and control the sweat glands. For most patients the results of the surgery are immediate and permanent. Sympathectomy has been a standard medical procedure for about 30 years. Recent advances in medicine have made it possible to do this procedure with small incisions done in the patient's armpits.