What Is the Optimal Energy Density of 1,470 nm Diode Laser in the Treatment of the Varicose Veins?

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was done to determine the suitable level of energy for the elimination of saphenous veins. METHODS: A randomized comparative study was done to determine the optimal linear endovenous energy density (LEED) for EVLT of incompetent great saphenous veins. Between October 2009 and September 2010, in 268 (173 women, 95 men) patients with a mean age of 43.1 (range 20~80) were treated, using a 1,470 nm diode laser at 10 watts in continuous mode. Patients were randomized to undergo EVLT with 100 J/cm (Group A) or 80 J/cm (Group B), respectively. They were evaluated clinically and by duplex at 1, 3, and 6 months and 1 year. RESULTS: There was no significant difference concerning gender, age, C of CEAP or diameter of the treated veins. Successful occlusion rates of the GSV, defined as the absence of flow on color doppler imaging, were 92% in Group A and 91% in Group B. There was no deep vein thrombosis, superficial burns or thrombophlebitis. In group A, visual analog scale was 3.7.6, which was higher than group B (2.3.2). The area of ecchymosis was 37.5% in group A, but 12.5% in group B. CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference between 80 J/cm group and 100 J/cm group in terms of occlusion rate within 1 year. Long-term results will be required to determine the optimal level of energy.