Use of a new endovenous laser device: results of the 1,500 nm laser.
BACKGROUND
A new endovenous laser wavelength (1,500 nm diode laser) in the treatment of great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux was evaluated. We studied the occlusion rate at 6 months and noted possible side effects.


METHODS
In 129 patients, 158 GSVs were treated using the 1,500 nm diode laser. An average linear endovenous energy density of 53.4 J/cm and an average endovenous fluence of 32.21 J/cm(2) were administrated to the vein.


RESULTS
The occlusion rate at 6 months postoperative was 93.3%. Some of the nonoccluded veins closed spontaneously. A postoperative foam treatment was necessary in 3.4% of the treated veins. We found a marked shrinkage of the treated veins. There were limited side effects: moderate or severe ecchymosis in 19%, moderate pain in 1%, moderate periphlebitis in 8.2%, with no paresthesias.


CONCLUSIONS
Endovenous laser treatment of the GSV using a 1,500 nm diode laser is effective and safe. The marked shrinkage of the treated veins can guarantee good long-term results.
Vuylsteke
M E
ME
Department of Vascular Surgery, Sint-Andriesziekenhuis, Tielt, Belgium. marc.vuylsteke@mac.com
Vandekerckhove
P J
PJ
De Bo
T
T
Moons
P
P
Mordon
S
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004438:Ecchymosis / Q000209:etiology; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology; D010689:Phlebitis / Q000209:etiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D018616:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Duplex; D014689:Venous Insufficiency / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*