Experience with the use of 1470 nm endovenous laser for the treatment of saphenofemoral axial reflux in Mexico

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic venous insufficiency currently occupies the first place in outpatient medical attention in angiology and vascular surgery services at health institutions. Objective: To show the usefulness and efficacy of the 1470 nm wavelength with radial fiber for the obliteration of the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ). Materials and methods: During a 14 month period, 63 patients with chronic venous insufficiency were treated by diode laser with a 1470 nm wavelength and radial fiber. CEAP's international classification was utilized to evaluate the clinical characteristics of the lower limbs. IEWG (International En dovenous Laser Working Group) format was utilized for the obtained data uptake. The postoperative clinical follow-up took place at 24 hrs, 7 days, and months 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12. The surgical technique for venous access was performed by Seldinger's method at knee and malleolus levels. Results: Endovenous laser treatment was performed in 72 lower limbs. 92% of the patients were female, with 8% being men. The age range was between 29-75 years, with an average of 51.6 years. The observed complications with the use of the flat (BARE) fiber in the first 10 patients were a hematoma in one case, paresthesias in 4 patients, and mild pain in 6 patients; in contrast to 6 patients with mild pain with the use of the radial fiber. Conclusions: The use of the diode laser with a 1470 nm wavelength proved to be safe and efficient in the obliteration of the insufficiency at the SFJ, showing clinical satisfaction for the patients. The ease of use of the radial fiber also contributed to the obliteration of the sapheno-axial junction, showing decreased pain after endovenous treatment.