The field of chronic venous disorders (CVD) previously suffered from
lack of precision in diagnosis. This deficiency led to conflicting
reports in studies of management of specific venous problems, at a time
when new methods were being offered to improve treatment for both simple
and more complicated venous diseases. It was believed that these
conflicts could be resolved with precise diagnosis and classification of
the underlying venous problem.
TNM classification is popular for understanding the extent of cancers, their prognosis and to communicate outcomes of treatments with different people. In a similar way there has been a search for a classification to help us for better understanding chronic venous disease and communicate the results of the treatments for chronic venous disorders. The discussions of various committees on this issues resulted in CEAP classification which is also validated later on.
The CEAP classification
(Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology) was adopted worldwide to
facilitate meaningful communication about CVD and serve as a basis for
more scientific analysis of management alternatives. This
classification, based on correct diagnosis, was also expected to serve
as a systematic guide in the daily clinical investigation of patients as
an orderly documentation system and basis for decisions regarding
appropriate treatment.
Reference:
- H.G. Beebe, J.J. Bergan, D. Bergqvist, B. Eklöf, I. Eriksson, M.P. Goldman et al. Classification and grading of chronic venous disease in the lower limbs: a consensus statement Vasc Surg, 30 (1996), pp. 5–11
