1. What is TBSA Calculation?

Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) calculation estimates the percentage of body surface area affected by burns. It's a critical measurement in burn care that helps determine treatment protocols, fluid resuscitation needs, and prognosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rule of Nines method:

Where each body region is assigned a percentage value:

• Head: 9%
• Torso Front: 18%
• Torso Back: 18%
• Each Arm: 9%
• Each Leg: 18%
• Genitalia: 1%

Explanation: The calculator sums the percentage values of all affected body regions to determine the total burn surface area.

3. Importance of TBSA Calculation

Details: Accurate TBSA estimation is crucial for determining burn severity, guiding fluid resuscitation, planning surgical interventions, and predicting patient outcomes in burn care.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the percentage of each body region affected by burns. The calculator will sum all values to provide the total body surface area affected. Values should be between 0-100% for each region.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Rule of Nines?
A: The Rule of Nines is a method used to estimate the total body surface area affected by burns by dividing the body into sections that represent 9% or multiples of 9% of the total body surface.

Q2: How accurate is TBSA estimation?
A: While the Rule of Nines provides a quick estimate, it's less accurate for children and obese patients. Lund and Browder chart is more precise but requires more detailed assessment.

Q3: What TBSA percentage indicates a major burn?
A: Generally, burns covering more than 20-25% of TBSA in adults (10-20% in children or elderly) are considered major burns requiring specialized care.

Q4: How does TBSA affect fluid resuscitation?
A: Fluid requirements are calculated based on TBSA using formulas like the Parkland formula (4 mL × kg × %TBSA), making accurate estimation critical.

Q5: Are there different calculations for children?
A: Yes, children have different body proportions. The head represents a larger percentage (up to 18% in infants) and legs a smaller percentage compared to adults.