1940nm Diode Laser for Varicose Vein Treatment

What is a 1940nm laser?

A laser produces light of a single wavelength, measured in nanometers (nm). Different wavelengths are absorbed by different things in body tissue. In vein treatment, the goal is to heat the inner wall of a leaking vein enough to seal it shut, while keeping heat away from nearby skin, nerves and tissue.

Light at 1940nm is absorbed very strongly by water, which makes up much of the vein wall. Because it is absorbed so readily, the energy acts over a very short distance. That is why lasers in this range are often described as “water-specific”. LEDAS uses two Diotech 1940nm diode laser units.

How does the laser close a varicose vein?

The laser is used in endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) . “Endovenous” means from inside the vein. The steps are:

1. Confirm reflux: the doctor uses duplex ultrasound to confirm backward flow and mark the vein.
2. Insert the fiber: a laser fiber about as thin as a hair is passed into the vein through a needle puncture.
3. Numb the area: local anesthetic fluid is placed around the vein under ultrasound. It also protects surrounding tissue.
4. Treat the wall: the fiber is slowly drawn back while laser energy heats the inner wall, which shrinks and seals.
5. Absorption: over the following weeks and months the closed vein is gradually absorbed by the body.

Blood that used to pool in the faulty vein is redirected into healthy veins, which carry it back to the heart properly.

How does 1940nm compare with other wavelengths?

Endovenous lasers have used several wavelengths. Earlier systems, such as 810nm and 980nm, are absorbed mainly by hemoglobin in blood. Later systems, around 1470nm and 1940nm, target water in the vein wall. Water-targeting wavelengths generally allow lower energy settings and are associated with less bruising and discomfort after treatment. Outcomes also depend on the doctor's technique, the fiber used and the accuracy of the ultrasound map. Our 1940nm vs 980nm/1470nm comparison explains this in more detail.

What does it feel like?

You are awake throughout. The local anesthetic injections cause brief stinging. During the laser stage most people feel pressure or warmth rather than pain. After treatment, a pulling or tight feeling along the treated vein is common for 1–2 weeks; gentle walking and ankle exercises help. Bruising is usually mild. See the recovery timeline .

Is the laser used on its own?

No. At LEDAS the laser closes the main leaking trunk veins. Smaller and hidden veins are treated with duplex-guided sclerotherapy and visible spider and reticular veins with sclerotherapy . This combination is the LEDAS treatment system . LEDAS does not offer radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or VenaSeal glue.

Who is not suitable for laser treatment?

Laser treatment may not be suitable if you have an active deep vein thrombosis, are pregnant, cannot walk, or have certain other medical conditions. Some veins are too small or twisted for a fiber and are better treated with injections. The decision is made after your ultrasound. Read is laser vein treatment safe?

Endovenous laser wavelengths compared

1940nm laser – frequently asked questions