ABSTRACT
References 673
Primary venous insufficiency, presenting as telangiectasia, reticular veins, and varicose
veins, affect up to 80% of the population (1). Approximately one-half of these patients
may experience symptoms from their disease, but the vast majority seek treatment
for cosmetic purposes (2). Until recently, sclerotherapy has been the standard treatment
for leg veins up to 4 mm in diameter, and surgical excision for leg veins.4 mm in diameter (3-5). As a result of technological advances, lasers and light sources (Table 33.1) can
now be safely and effectively used to treat leg telangectasia, venulectasia, and reticular and
varicose veins in the appropriately selected patient. Bare fiber diode lasers and radio-
frequency devices are now used to treat greater saphenous vein insufficiency.
