Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA)

What is mechanochemical ablation?

Mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) closes a leaking truncal vein — the usual cause of varicose veins — by combining two actions in one catheter. A fine rotating wire tip mechanically disrupts the inner lining of the vein while a sclerosant medicine is delivered along the same segment, and the two effects together seal the vein. Devices such as ClariVein® and Flebogrif® work on this principle.

How it differs from other techniques

Like VenaSeal, MOCA is a non-thermal technique: no heat means no need for tumescent anaesthesia — the row of injections along the thigh that heat-based ablation requires. A single needle puncture at the entry point is typically all the anaesthesia involved. Because there is no thermal energy near skin nerves, MOCA is also an option worth considering for below-knee segments, where heat-based endovenous ablation carries a small risk of nerve irritation.

What the procedure involves

• Performed under local anaesthesia, typically as a day procedure
• The catheter is positioned in the faulty vein under ultrasound guidance
• Treatment of a truncal vein usually takes well under an hour
• You walk out the same day; most patients return to normal activities quickly, with compression stockings worn for a period afterwards

What to expect afterwards

A feeling of tightness or a pulling sensation along the treated vein is common in the first weeks as the vein seals and is absorbed. Bruising and phlebitis-like tenderness can occur and settle; deep vein thrombosis after any truncal vein treatment is uncommon but recognised. A follow-up ultrasound confirms closure.

Is it right for me?

No single technique fits every vein — diameter, depth, straightness and your own preferences (for example about heat, glue or sclerosant) all play a part. At consultation your veins are scanned, and I go through where MOCA sits against heat-based ablation, VenaSeal and sclerotherapy for your anatomy.