Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA / Clarivein®)
Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA / Clarivein®)

Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA / Clarivein®)

Clarivein is an innovative endovenous treatment for varicose veins that combines mechanical and chemical techniques, known as mechanochemical ablation (MOCA). Unlike traditional thermal methods such as laser or radiofrequency, Clarivein does not use heat, allowing the vein to be safely destroyed without injecting local anaesthetic along its length. A rotating wire inside the vein damages the vein wall, while a sclerosant is simultaneously delivered to ensure permanent closure. This method treats the vein from within, offering a precise and minimally invasive approach.

Who are the best candidates?

Who are the best candidates?

Clarivein is particularly suitable for patients who wish to avoid multiple injections of local anaesthetic or for veins located close to nerves or lower in the leg, such as beneath ulcers. It is also recommended for veins of standard size that respond well to sclerotherapy. Patients with very large veins, multiple veins requiring extensive treatment, or known allergies to sclerosants may not be suitable, and careful assessment is required.

Treatment Details

Treatment Details

During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The rotating wire is activated and gradually withdrawn while sclerosant is injected, causing permanent closure of the vein. The procedure is minimally invasive, performed entirely under ultrasound control, and does not require open surgery. Treatment time is typically shorter than traditional endovenous methods due to the absence of extensive local anaesthetic administration.

Anaesthetic Details

Clarivein is unique in being tumescence-free, meaning there is no need to inject local anaesthetic along the length of the vein. Some patients may receive a small local injection at the insertion site, but the procedure is otherwise performed without the discomfort of multiple anaesthetic injections.

Number of treatment Sessions

In most cases, a single Clarivein session is sufficient to treat the targeted vein. Occasionally, follow-up treatment may be needed for residual veins or additional branches, depending on the individual’s anatomy and the extent of varicosities.

Pain Level

Patients generally experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, with most reporting only a mild sensation at the catheter insertion point. The absence of multiple anaesthetic injections significantly reduces procedural pain compared with conventional endovenous techniques.

Price Range

Clarivein treatment is typically priced according to the number of veins treated and the complexity of the procedure. Costs reflect the minimally invasive nature of the technique and the expertise of the treating consultant. Precise pricing is provided during a personalised consultation.

Recovery Time & Aftercare

Recovery Time & Aftercare

Recovery is typically quick, with most patients resuming normal activities immediately or within a day. A short period of wearing compression stockings may be recommended to support vein closure and optimise results. Patients are advised to follow post-procedure guidance for best outcomes, including mobility and avoidance of prolonged immobility.

Potential side effects and risks

Potential side effects and risks

Clarivein is very safe when performed by an experienced consultant. Minor side effects may include temporary bruising, mild swelling, or a sensation of tightness along the treated vein. Serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis or nerve injury, are rare. Careful ultrasound guidance and the tumescence-free technique help minimise these risks.

Clinical Success Rate

Clinical Success Rate

When performed according to the Whiteley Protocol, Clarivein achieves a high success rate in permanently closing the treated vein. The combination of mechanical and chemical ablation ensures effective and lasting results in appropriately selected patients.

Recurrence Rate after 5 years

Recurrence Rate after 5 years

Long-term outcomes show that ablated veins do not typically reopen when proper technique is followed. As a result, the recurrence of varicose veins in the treated segment is significantly lower than with traditional stripping procedures, providing durable and reliable treatment outcomes.

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