Evaluation of the long-pulse dye laser for the treatment of leg telangiectasias.

Abstract

Leg telangiectasias are common visible ecstatic dermal capillaries, arterioles, or veins. Multiple methods of treatment have been reported for this entity. A long-pulse (1500 microsecond) dye laser has been developed to treat leg veins ranging in size from 0.1 to 1.0 mm in diameter. To determine the effectiveness of this novel device on treating leg veins with varying wavelengths and fluences. Eight patients with more than 250 sites of leg telangiectasis were treated with the long-pulse dye laser. Clearance of 100% was achieved after one or two treatments by vessels with diameters up to 0.5 mm. Vessels with diameters between 0.5 and 1.0 mm faded in about 80% of treatments. Transient adverse affects were observed in a low incidence. The long-pulse dye laser is a safe and effective tool in the treatment of leg telangiectasias.