A method and system for locating a vascular opening and therapeutically sealing the wound with high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is disclosed. A control unit (6) coupled to an applicator unit includes a processor (74) that automates the disclosed procedure, controlling various parameters of the diagnostic and therapeutic modes, including the intensity and duration of the ultrasonic energy emitted by the applicator unit. The disclosed method and system is and then discarded, is slipped over the particularly applicable to sealing a puncture made inserting a catheter during an interventional cardiovascular procedure.