Wallace rule of nines is used to estimate burn surface area in adults. A patient with burns involving the entire right upper limb, the anterior thorax, and the perineum: what is the total BSA% burned?
- A 27%
- B 29%
- C 30%
- D 28% ✓
Correct answer: D. 28%
Explanation
Using the Rule of Nines in adults: entire right upper limb = 9%, anterior thorax (anterior chest + anterior abdomen) = 9% + 9% = 18%, perineum = 1%. Total = 9 + 18 + 1 = 28%. Each upper limb is 9%, each lower limb 18%, anterior trunk 18%, posterior trunk 18%, head 9%, and perineum 1%. This calculation is important for fluid resuscitation using the 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.