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Laser treatment of leg veins: Physical mechanisms and theoretical considerations
Author(s) -
Ross Edward Victor,
Domankevitz Yacov
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
lasers in surgery and medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.888
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1096-9101
pISSN - 0196-8092
DOI - 10.1002/lsm.20141
Subject(s) - monte carlo method , wavelength , context (archaeology) , laser , fluence , materials science , optics , biomedical engineering , physics , medicine , mathematics , paleontology , statistics , biology
Abstract Background and Objectives A discussion of laser treatment of leg veins is based on a review of the literature, theoretical analysis, and the clinical experiences of the authors. Theoretical computations are discussed within the context of clinical observations. Study Design/Materials and Methods A Monte Carlo model is used to examine volumetric heat production, fluence rate, and temperature profiles in blood vessels at 1,064 and 532 nm wavelengths with various beam diameters, vessel diameters, and pulse durations. Results Clinical observations, Monte Carlo results, and a review of the literature suggest that longer wavelengths and longer pulses durations favor vessel contraction over intraluminal thrombosis. Monte Carlo simulations show that longer wavelengths are more likely to uniformly heat the vessel compared to highly absorbing wavelengths. Methemoglobin production causes deeply penetrating wavelengths to generate more volumetric heat for the same input radiant exposure. Conclusions Clinical observations and models support the role of long wavelengths and long pulses in optimal clearance of most leg telangiectasias. Lasers Surg. Med. 36:105–116, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.