Rapports de cas cliniques et médicaux

A 1064-Nm Laser in the Routine Treatment of Telangiectasia of the Lower Leg: A Cohort Study

Abstract

Arminda Avdulaj*

Background and objectives: The Neodymium-Doped Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (ND: YAG) laser has proven effective in the treatment of leg telangiectasias, yet the literature lacks consensus on the optimal settings. This study aims to assess the efficacy of the 1064nm Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of leg telangiectasias in a safety focused setting.

Materials and methods: Records of 42 patients with lower leg telangiectasia who underwent laser treatment between December 2019 and March 2023 were assessed. Laser parameters have been adjusted to prioritize overall safety. Two months after the treatment Global Aesthetic Improvement Score (GAIS) and the extent of vessel clearance were evaluated on a scale ranging between 0% and 100%. Patients rated their satisfaction on an 11-point Likert scale and their perception of pain during the treatment on a 6-point scale. Narratives of all adverse events were examined.

Results: The mean patient satisfaction was 8.4 ± 0.7 (mean ± SD). The mean GAIS score was 81.4% ± 0.8% (mean ± SD). Vessel clearance of 60% and greater was achieved in 52% of patients. Mean patient satisfaction was 8.4 ± 0.7 (mean ± SD). Both GAIS score and vessel clearance were positively correlated with patient satisfaction (correlation coefficient 0.8 and 0.6, respectively). All patients experienced mild crusting at the site of the treatment which resolved spontaneously within up to two weeks. Two instances of hyperpigmentation self-resolved within six and seventeen weeks.

Conclusion: The treatment of leg telangiectasias with the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser has proven to be safe and effective. The results achieved through a cautious approach in laser settings appear to be comparable to or better than, previous research in a variety of settings.