Intravascular 1320-nm laser closure of the great saphenous vein: a 6- to 12-month follow-up study.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of an intravascular laser with a novel wavelength to close the great saphenous vein.

METHODS

Twenty-four cases of an incompetent great saphenous vein (0.5-1.2 cm in diameter) associated with distal varicose veins were treated with a 1320-nm intravascular laser at 5 W with an automatic pullback mechanism at 1 mm/s. Patients were evaluated with duplex ultrasound to determine efficacy of treatment at various time periods to at least 6 months after the procedure.

RESULTS

All patients demonstrated complete closure of the incompetent great saphenous vein. In most cases, the treated great saphenous vein was not identifiable 6 months postoperatively. There was no recurrence of any varicose veins. All preoperative symptoms resolved after treatment, and no complications were noted. All patients were very pleased with the outcome of the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

At 6 months or greater follow-up, a 5-W, 1320-nm intravascular laser with 1 mm/s automatic pullback, delivered through a diffusion-tip fiber, is safe and effective in treating an incompetent great saphenous vein up to 1.2 cm in diameter.