title: Laser; best practice techniques and evidence.
abstract: Laser ablation involves the delivery of laser light through a glass fibre placed into the lumen of a refluxing vein. This energy is converted into heat inducing a permanent, non-thrombotic occlusion. This highly effective and safe approach has significant advantages over traditional surgical treatment and has driven the endovenous revolution in the management of varicose veins. This chapter will explore the mechanism of action, present the evidence of laser' clinical and cost effectiveness, and analyse specific and generic aspects of laser ablation technique.
authors.affiliation: Academic Vascular Surgical Unit, University of Hull, UK.
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Carradice
authors.affiliation: Academic Vascular Surgical Unit, University of Hull, UK.
authors.forename: Clement
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Leung
authors.affiliation: Academic Vascular Surgical Unit, University of Hull, UK ian.chetter@hey.nhs.uk.
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Chetter
mesh_terms: D000758:Anesthesia; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D057510:Endovascular Procedures / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D007834:Lasers; D008027:Light; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000601:surgery*; D015911:Sclerotherapy / Q000379:methods; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000191:economics / Q000601:surgery*
keywords: Endovenous laser; varicose veins; venous insufficiency