How To Calculate Burn Percentage Of Body

Wallace Rule of Nines Formula:

\[ \% Burn = \sum (Affected Body Parts \% \times Severity) \]

Head (%):

Torso Anterior (%):

Torso Posterior (%):

Left Arm (%):

Right Arm (%):

Left Leg (%):

Right Leg (%):

Genitalia (%):

Burn Severity Factor:

Total Burn Percentage:

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1. What is Wallace Rule of Nines?

The Wallace Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns. It divides the body into sections that represent 9% or multiples of 9% of the total body surface area, providing a quick way to assess burn severity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Wallace Rule of Nines formula:

\[ \% Burn = \sum (Affected Body Parts \% \times Severity) \]

Where:

\( Affected Body Parts \% \) — Percentage of each body part affected
\( Severity \) — Burn severity factor (1.0 for full thickness, 0.5 for partial thickness, 0.25 for superficial)

Body Part Percentages:

Head: 9%
Each Arm: 9%
Torso Anterior: 18%
Torso Posterior: 18%
Each Leg: 18%
Genitalia: 1%

3. Importance of Burn Percentage Calculation

Details: Accurate burn percentage calculation is crucial for determining fluid resuscitation needs, prognosis, and treatment planning. Burns covering more than 20% of TBSA typically require hospitalization and specialized care.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the percentage of each body part affected by burns. Select the appropriate burn severity factor based on the depth of the burn. The calculator will automatically compute the total burn percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Rule of Nines used for?
A: It's used to quickly estimate the percentage of total body surface area affected by burns to guide fluid resuscitation and treatment decisions.

Q2: How accurate is the Rule of Nines?
A: It provides a rapid estimate but may be less accurate in children and obese patients. For precise measurements, the Lund and Browder chart is preferred.

Q3: What are the burn severity classifications?
A: Superficial (first-degree), partial thickness (second-degree), and full thickness (third-degree) burns.

Q4: When is burn percentage critical?
A: Burns covering more than 10% in children, 15% in adults, or any full-thickness burns require medical attention. Over 20% TBSA often requires hospitalization.

Q5: Are there alternatives to Rule of Nines?
A: Yes, the Lund and Browder chart is more accurate, especially for children, as it accounts for age-related changes in body proportions.