The Fontaine classification of peripheral arterial disease categorizes a patient with rest pain in the foot, present for 2 weeks, without tissue loss as which stage?
- A Stage I
- B Stage IIb
- C Stage III ✓
- D Stage IV
Correct answer: C. Stage III
Explanation
The Fontaine classification: Stage I = asymptomatic; Stage IIa = claudication >200 m; Stage IIb = claudication <200 m; Stage III = rest pain (ischemic rest pain, typically nocturnal in forefoot/toes); Stage IV = tissue loss (ulceration or gangrene). Rest pain without tissue loss is Stage III, representing critical limb ischemia requiring urgent revascularization to prevent tissue loss.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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