The Baux score is used to predict mortality in burns. For a 60-year-old patient with 40% TBSA burns, what is the revised Baux score, and what does it estimate?
- A Score 100; approximately 50% predicted mortality ✓
- B Score 100; approximately 100% mortality
- C Score 100; used as a threshold above which ventilation is offered
- D Score 100; requires addition of inhalation injury (+17) for final mortality estimate
Correct answer: A. Score 100; approximately 50% predicted mortality
Explanation
Revised Baux score = age + %TBSA (+17 if inhalation injury present). Here: 60 + 40 = 100 (no inhalation injury stated). A score of 100 corresponds to approximately 50% predicted 30-day mortality according to the revised Baux model. When inhalation injury is added (+17), score becomes 117, indicating ~90% mortality risk. The revised Baux score has replaced the original in modern burn centre prognostication.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.