Venous lake of the lips treated using photocoagulation with high-intensity diode laser.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of photocoagulation with high-intensity diode laser in the treatment of venous lake (VL) lesions.


BACKGROUND
VL is a common vascular lesion characterized by elevated, usually dome-shaped papules, ranging in color from dark blue to dark purple, seen more frequently in elderly patients. They often occur as single lesions on the ears, face, lips, or neck. Once formed, lesions persist throughout life. Although these lesions are usually asymptomatic, they can bleed if injured.


METHODS
Seventeen patients (7 men and 10 women) with VL on the lip were treated using a noncontact diode laser (wavelength 808 nm, power output 2-3 W in continuous wave).


RESULTS
After only one irradiation exposure, all lesions were successfully treated. Healing was completed in approximately 2 to 3 weeks, and none of the patients experienced complications. Postoperative discomfort and scarring were not present or were minimal.


CONCLUSIONS
Photocoagulation with high-intensity diode laser is an effective, bloodless procedure for the treatment of VL.
Azevedo
Luciane H
LH
Department of Oral Diagnosis, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. luazevedo@usp.br
Galletta
Vivian C
VC
Eduardo
Carlos de Paula
Cde P
Migliari
Dante A
DA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004108:Dilatation, Pathologic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000379:methods*; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008046:Lip / Q000098:blood supply*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014699:Venules / Q000473:pathology