In the management of acute limb ischaemia, which Rutherford classification category indicates a limb with no sensory loss, no muscle weakness, and an audible Doppler signal — still viable but requiring urgent treatment?
- A Category IIa — marginally threatened
- B Category I — viable, no immediate threat ✓
- C Category IIb — immediately threatened
- D Category III — irreversible ischaemia
Correct answer: B. Category I — viable, no immediate threat
Explanation
Rutherford Category I (viable): no sensory loss, no motor deficit, audible arterial and venous Doppler signals — the limb is not immediately threatened and there is time for full assessment and elective intervention. Category IIa: rest pain or minimal sensory loss without motor deficit — requires urgent treatment within hours. Category IIb: sensory loss plus mild motor deficit — requires emergency revascularisation. Category III: profound paralysis, paraesthesia, inaudible signals — irreversible, amputation considered.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.