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

BACKGROUND: 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. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of this novel device on treating leg veins with varying wavelengths and fluences. METHODS: Eight patients with more than 250 sites of leg telangiectasis were treated with the long-pulse dye laser. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: The long-pulse dye laser is a safe and effective tool in the treatment of leg telangiectasias.