Objectives To determine great saphenous vein occlusion rate after endovenous laser ablation using the 1470-nm bare-fiber diode laser to supply either 7 W or 15 W and evaluate procedure-related complications. Method Patients with varicose veins of the lower extremities (CEAP class C2-C6) were randomly assigned to undergo either 7-W (18 patients, 30 limbs) or 15-W (18 patients, 30 limbs) endovenous laser ablation. Duplex ultrasound follow-up was at 3-5 days, 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Results Occlusion rate was 100% in both groups at 3-5 days and 1 month and 86.7% in 7-W and 100% in 15-W patients at both 6 and 12 months, with no difference between groups ( p > 0.05). Four (13.3%) 15-W and 3 (10%) 7-W patients had paresthesia at 3-5 days, with no difference between groups ( p > 0.05). Conclusions These preliminary data suggest that both techniques are similarly effective in the treatment of varicose great saphenous veins.

Introduction Approximately 40 cases of spontaneous rupture of the aorta have been described in the literature. Diagnosis can be challenging, and a high index of clinical suspicion enabling prompt treatment can be lifesaving. Report This report presents the case of a 73 year old man who had three multilevel ruptures of the aorta at different times, all treated endovascularly. The patient had a good post-operative course, with no complaints during regular follow up. Discussion Clinical presentation was non-specific because the ruptures were contained, but spontaneous rupture of the aorta can manifest with a catastrophic presentation and hypovolaemic shock, requiring immediate treatment. The endovascular technique used was safe and resolved the patient's symptoms.