Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) irradiation for lower extremity telangiectases and small reticular veins: efficacy as measured by vessel color and size.

BACKGROUND

Laser treatment of lower extremity telangiectases and small reticular veins has remained difficult because of vessel color, diameter, depth, and associated high-pressure flow. Traditionally, larger-caliber blue leg veins do not respond well to laser treatment. Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) irradiation is absorbed by oxyhemoglobin and reduced hemoglobin and is associated with greater depth of penetration than other previously studied vascular lasers.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a millisecond contact-cooled 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of telangiectases and small reticular veins.

METHODS

Twenty-one lower extremity sites, with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV, received two laser treatments separated by a 4 to 6-week period. Blue and red vessels, ranging in size from 0.25 to 4.0 mm were treated. Pulse durations of 10-50 msec were utilized at fluences of 90-187 J/cm2. Three months after the last treatment, patients were evaluated for vessel improvement and complications.

RESULTS

Seventy-one percent of lower extremity vessels had improvement graded as significant. All vessel colors and sizes were successfully treated. The only complication at 3 months was postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

CONCLUSION

1064 nm Nd:YAG laser irradiation with associated contact cooling is a safe and effective treatment for telangiectases and small reticular veins of the lower extremities.