Objective: To discuss the technical points, advantages, follow-up results and mechanism of endovenous holmium laser treatment for varicose veins.
Methods: Endovenous holmium laser procedures were performed for 96 patients (99 legs) with primary varicosity of lower extremities. Perioperative Duplex was used for preoperative diagnosis, intraoperative guide and postoperative follow-up. The time of procedure and clinical results were observed. The mean follow-up time was 7 months.
Results: Sixty-seven in 99 legs with saphenous vein occluded immediately during operation. All saphenous veins were confirmed to be occluded 7 days after the procedure. There was no recanalization with Duplex finding during the follow-up period. No wound complications. Two cases were with minor skin burn. One case was with saphenous nerve injury. Three cases were with thigh ecchymosis.
Conclusion: Preliminary results show endovenous holmium laser treatment for varicose veins is safe and effective in treating varicose veins with cosmetic appearance and quicker recovery.