Endovenous Laser Ablation Using a Nd:YAG 1319-nm Pulse Wave Laser

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for treating insufficiency of the saphenous veins or accessory saphenous veins using a 1319-nm Nd:YAG pulse wave laser. Forty-nine patients (76 limbs, 87 veins, 53 cases) were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were elected to undergo EVLA for one of the three reasons: larger mean vein diameter (>10 mm), currently receiving anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, and/or patient request for a painless procedure. Sixty-two great saphenous veins (mean diameter, 9.6±3.7 mm), 21 short saphenous veins (mean diameter, 6.4±1.7 mm), and 4 other veins were ablated. No major complications such as deep vein thrombosis and paresthesia occurred. Postoperative pain and bruising were observed in 5.3% and 6.6% of limbs, respectively. All patients completed a 1-year follow-up. Occlusion of treated varicose veins was satisfactory except for one case of partial recanalization (1.2%). EVLA of varicose veins using a 1319-nm pulse laser is highly effective and associated with few side effects.