1. What is the Rule of Nines for Burns?

Definition: The Rule of Nines is a method 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, each representing approximately 9% (or multiples of 9%) of the total body surface area:

Body Regions:

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

3. Importance of Burn Calculation

Clinical Significance:

• Burns >20% TBSA often require IV fluid resuscitation
• Burns >40% TBSA are life-threatening
• Helps determine hospital admission criteria
• Guides treatment decisions and prognosis

4. Using the Calculator

Instructions: Enter the percentage burned for each body region. The calculator will sum all values to give total %TBSA burned.

Note: For partial burns to a region, estimate the percentage (e.g., half of front torso burned = 9%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is the Rule of Nines different for children?
A: Yes, children have proportionally larger heads and smaller legs. Use pediatric-specific charts for accurate assessment.

Q2: What about burns to the palm?
A: The patient's palm (not including fingers) represents about 0.5% TBSA and can be used for small burns.

Q3: How accurate is the Rule of Nines?
A: It provides a quick estimate but may be less accurate for obese or very muscular patients.

Q4: When should I use the Lund-Browder chart instead?
A: For more precise calculations, especially in children, the Lund-Browder chart is preferred.

Q5: What's considered a major burn?
A: Generally burns >10% TBSA in children/elderly or >20% in adults, or burns involving face, hands, feet, or genitals.