ABSTRACT

Background: In recent years, the endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) has been proposed to treat the incompetent greater saphenous veins (GSV) to increase patient comfort,and to reduce cost as well as risk. EVLT causes vein wall thickening, luminal contraction and vein fibrosis. The purpose of this article, as the first report from Iran, is to review our experience and outline the early results and complication of EVLT. Materials and Methods: 22 patients (13 females and 9 males, mean age: 40.6±11 years, range: 25-64) underwent EVLT of incompetent GSV segments with 810-nm diode laser with an average energy of 89.2 J/cm (range, 50-123 J/cm). Success rate was defined as absence of reflux throughout the entire treated segment on follow-up doppler ultrasound (DUS) and clinical resolution of symptoms. Results: Short-term results in the EVLT of 22 GSV indicate a 100% rate of closure. Self-limiting complication were occurred in 18% of patients and included moderate ecchymosis and paresthesias in 3 (13.5%), and 1 (4.5%) patients, respectively. No major complications such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism were occurred. DUS demonstrated 21 (95%) and 19 (90.9%) occluded GSVs at 12 weeks, and 24 weeks respectively. Conclusion: The early results of our experiences are excellent. EVLT of the incompetent GSV with an 810 nm diode laser appears to be an extremely safe technique. EVLT is a very effective and safe with best cosmetic results and rare side effects.