1. What is the Rule of Nines?

Definition: The Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns in adults.

Purpose: It helps medical professionals quickly assess burn severity and determine fluid resuscitation needs.

2. How Does the Rule of Nines Work?

The body is divided into regions that represent 9% or multiples of 9% of the total body surface area:

Body Regions:

• Head and neck: 9%
• Each arm: 9% (front and back)
• Each leg: 18% (front and back)
• Front torso: 18%
• Back torso: 18%
• Genitals: 1%

3. Importance of Burn Surface Area Calculation

Clinical Significance: TBSA is crucial for:

• Determining burn severity (minor, moderate, major)
• Calculating fluid resuscitation needs (Parkland formula)
• Assessing prognosis and mortality risk
• Determining need for transfer to burn center

4. Using the Calculator

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

Note: For pediatric patients, different percentages apply (Lund-Browder chart is more accurate).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What constitutes a major burn?
A: Typically burns covering >20% TBSA in adults or >10% in children/elderly.

Q2: How accurate is the Rule of Nines?
A: It provides quick estimates but may be less precise for irregular burns. Lund-Browder chart is more accurate.

Q3: What about partial thickness vs full thickness burns?
A: This calculator estimates surface area only. Depth assessment requires clinical evaluation.

Q4: How does this differ for children?
A: Children have proportionally larger heads (up to 18%) and smaller legs.

Q5: What's the palm method?
A: For small burns, the patient's palm (including fingers) represents ~1% of TBSA.