RE-EVALUATION OF THE FONTAINE'S CLASSIFICATION IN ARTERIOSCLEROSIS OBLITERANS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to re-evaluate the Fontaine's classification by non-invasive examinatioons (ankle pressure index, photo plethysmography, and TcPO₂ index) in arteriosclerosis obliterans of the lower extremities. There was a significant difference in ischemic status of the lower extremities between Fontain II and III, or II and IV, whereas no significant difference was seen between Fontaine I and II, or III and IV. Therefore, here we advocate the new classification which may objectively express the circulatory status of the lower extremities, that is, stage I: no symptom, II: intermittent claudication, IIIa: rest pain, and IIIb: ulceration or gangrene.