In varicose vein surgery, the CEAP classification of venous disease is used for grading. Which CEAP class is characterised by active venous ulceration?

• A C3 — Oedema
• B C6 — Active venous ulcer ✓
• C C4b — Lipodermatosclerosis
• D C5 — Healed venous ulcer

Explanation

CEAP classification: C0 — no visible disease; C1 — telangiectasias; C2 — varicose veins; C3 — oedema; C4a — pigmentation/eczema; C4b — lipodermatosclerosis; C5 — healed ulcer; C6 — active ulcer. C6 is the highest severity category representing an open, active venous leg ulcer. Management of C6 includes compression therapy, wound care, and venous interventions (EVLA, foam sclerotherapy) to reduce venous hypertension.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

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