How do thermal ablation techniques generally affect blood vessels?

Thermal ablation techniques are designed to produce controlled damage to tissues, particularly in medical procedures such as treating varicose veins and tumors. When thermal energy is applied, it raises the temperature of the tissue, leading to cellular destruction. In the case of blood vessels, this process induces thrombosis, which is the formation of a clot. This clotting results in the occlusion, or blockage, of the treated vessels, effectively sealing them off from the blood flow.

This is particularly beneficial in various procedures, such as the treatment of abnormal blood vessels, where the goal is to eliminate or reduce blood flow to a specific area. By causing thrombosis and occlusion, thermal ablation can successfully target and disrupt pathological tissues, minimizing their functional effects and facilitating healing in adjacent areas without the need for invasive surgery.