Treatment for:

Chronic venous reflux, restless leg syndrome, eczema, itching and pain

How it’s done:

MOCA is performed in a similar manner to thermal ablation (EVTA), although no heat is used. A special rotating catheter is advanced into the vein and a drug called a sclerosant is injected through the catheter to close down the vein. Tumescent anesthesia and lidocaine are not needed. This procedure is performed as an alternative to thermal ablation or a thermal procedure is not feasible due to the vein's proximity to a nerve. Ablations typically last about an hour.

Level of anesthesia:

Local lidocaine injection 

Risks of procedures:

Most procedures carry a risk, for these venous treatments the risks are minimal. Complications may include allergic reaction, bleeding, blood clots, ulceration, infection, or non-closure of the vein.

Post-procedure:

You will be required to wear compression stockings for a week after the procedure. An ultrasound will be done 1-2 weeks after the procedure. Minimal pain is experienced with this procedure and you may drive yourself to and from the appointment.

For more information:

For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our IR physicians, please call the UCLA Varicose Vein Clinic.