Using the Wallace Rule of Nines, calculate the total body surface area (TBSA) burned in an adult patient with burns affecting both thighs anteriorly (anterior surface only), the entire left arm, and the anterior trunk.
- A 27%
- B 36% ✓
- C 31%
- D 45%
Correct answer: B. 36%
Explanation
Using Wallace's Rule of Nines: each thigh (anterior surface only) = half of the lower limb 9% = 4.5%, so bilateral anterior thighs = 9%; entire left arm = 9%; anterior trunk = 18%. Total = 9 + 9 + 18 = 36%. In the Rule of Nines, each lower limb totals 18% (9% anterior + 9% posterior), the trunk is split 18% anterior and 18% posterior, and each upper limb is 9%. This calculation is used to determine fluid resuscitation requirements (Parkland formula).
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.