1. What is the Rule of Nines?

The Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the total body surface area (BSA) 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 extent in emergency situations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rule of Nines formula:

Where:

• \( Burned Area \) — Number of body sections affected by burns
• \( Total Body Surface Area \) — Total body surface area (typically 100%)

Explanation: The Rule of Nines assigns percentages to different body parts: head (9%), each arm (9%), anterior trunk (18%), posterior trunk (18%), each leg (18%), and perineum (1%).

3. Importance of Burn Percentage Calculation

Details: Accurate burn percentage estimation is crucial for determining fluid resuscitation needs, guiding treatment decisions, predicting prognosis, and assessing the need for specialized burn care referral.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of burned body sections based on the Rule of Nines distribution. Total BSA is typically 100% for adults. All values must be valid (burned area ≥ 0, total BSA > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard percentages in Rule of Nines?
A: Head and neck: 9%, Each upper limb: 9%, Anterior trunk: 18%, Posterior trunk: 18%, Each lower limb: 18%, Perineum: 1%.

Q2: How does Rule of Nines differ for children?
A: Children have different proportions - head represents a larger percentage and legs a smaller percentage compared to adults. Pediatric adjustments are necessary.

Q3: What burn percentage requires hospitalization?
A: Generally, burns covering >10-15% of BSA in adults or >5-10% in children require hospital admission for proper fluid management and care.

Q4: Are there limitations to Rule of Nines?
A: It's less accurate for irregular burn patterns, obese patients, and children. Lund-Browder chart provides more precise estimation for these cases.

Q5: When is burn percentage most critical?
A: During the first 24 hours for fluid resuscitation calculations using the Parkland formula (4 ml × kg × % burn).