Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) by the means of the latest 1940 nm wavelength device is suggested to become a promising alternative to the standard 1470 nm device in the treatment of incompetent truncal superficial veins. Limited penetration into the vein wall as well as the lack of probe carbonisation and high procedure safety are among the main arguments in the centres promoting this technology.

In the paper we describe a unique complication of the 1940 nm laser ablation consisting of the removal of the treated vein by invagination stripping after its wall carbonization and sticking to the end of the laser fibre.

Fortunately, the procedure resulted in mild ecchymoses only and no severe damage was observed. The presented case highlights the importance of ultrasound guidance during the EVLA as well as the need to establish both the proper power and linear endovenous energy density for the individual procedure.