Laser therapy for leg veins

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Laser therapy for leg veins
Available online 14 September 2007
Joy H. Kunishige MDa, , Leonard H. Goldberg MDb, and Paul M. Friedman MDa, b, ,
Clinics in Dermatology
Volume 25, Issue 5, September-October 2007
ScienceDirect

Published by Elsevier Inc.

aUniversity of Texas Health Science Center, Department of Dermatology, 6655 Travis St. Suite 980, Houston, TX 77030
bDermSurgery Associates, 7515 Main, Suite 240, Houston, TX 77030

Abstract

Visible veins on the leg are a common cosmetic concern affecting approximately 80% of women in the United States (Engel A, Johnson MI, Haynes SG. Health effects of sunlight exposure in the United States: results from the first national health and nutrition examination survey, 1971-1974. Arch Dermatol 1988;124:72-9). Without a quick and noninvasive treatment available, leg veins present a therapeutic challenge. This challenge has been tackled by the design of lasers with longer pulse durations, and the use of lasers with longer wavelengths and cooling devices. Recent studies show the efficacy of laser treatment beginning to approach that of sclerotherapy, the gold standard. This review outlines the principles guiding laser treatment, the current available options, and a clinically oriented approach to treating leg veins.

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