1. What is the Rule of Nines Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns using the Rule of Nines method.

Purpose: It helps medical professionals quickly assess burn severity and guide treatment decisions, particularly in emergency situations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rule of Nines formula:

Key Areas:

• Head and neck: 9% of TBSA
• Each arm: 9% of TBSA (including hand)
• Each leg: 18% of TBSA (including foot)
• Front torso: 18% of TBSA
• Back torso: 18% of TBSA
• Genital area: 1% of TBSA

3. Importance of TBSA Calculation

Clinical Significance: Accurate TBSA estimation is critical for:

• Determining fluid resuscitation needs
• Assessing burn severity
• Guiding treatment decisions
• Predicting patient outcomes

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the percentage burned for each body region. The calculator sums these values to provide total %TBSA burned.

Note: For partial burns to a region, estimate the percentage of that specific area affected (e.g., if half of one arm is burned, enter 4.5%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between Rule of Nines and Lund-Browder chart?
A: The Rule of Nines is quicker but less precise, while Lund-Browder accounts for age-related body proportion differences.

Q2: How accurate is the Rule of Nines?
A: It provides a rapid estimate (±5-10%) but may be less accurate for children or obese patients.

Q3: When is a burn considered critical?
A: Typically burns >20% TBSA in adults or >10% in children, or burns affecting critical areas (face, hands, feet, genitals).

Q4: How does TBSA affect fluid resuscitation?
A: The Parkland formula uses %TBSA to calculate fluid requirements (4ml × %TBSA × kg body weight).

Q5: Can I use this for pediatric patients?
A: The standard Rule of Nines is less accurate for children; modified versions adjust head and leg percentages by age.