Burn injuries are a common and potentially serious form of trauma that can affect the skin and underlying tissues. They vary in severity depending on their depth and the extent of the body surface involved. Understanding the classification of burns—by both depth and size—is essential for proper treatment and recovery.
Burn Degrees
The severity of burns is determined by depth. There are three burn degrees:
- First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin. They cause pain, redness, and swelling.
- Second-degree (partial thickness) burns affect both the outer and underlying layer of skin. They cause pain, redness, swelling, and blistering.
- Third-degree (full thickness) burns extend into deeper tissues. They cause white or blackened, charred skin that may be numb.
Rule of Nines
Burns are also classified by size in relation to the entire body. There are formulas used to determine the percentage of the body burned. The table below roughly generalizes the "rule of nines" for adults, where the body is divided into areas equaling multiples of 9% of the body area.
| Body Area | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| Arm | 9% | 9% |
| Head and Neck | 9% | 18% |
| Anterior Trunk | 18% | 18% |
| Posterior Trunk | 18% | 18% |
| Leg | 18% | 14% |
In an infant or child, the "rule" deviates because of the large surface area of the child's head and the smaller area of lower extremities. The medical team must determine the total area burned in order to determine the amount of replacement fluids needed.
Treatment for Burn Injuries
Effective treatment of burn injuries requires more than just immediate medical attention—it demands comprehensive, specialized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. At the TGH Burn Center, patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team of experts, state-of-the-art facilities, and advanced therapies that support recovery from the moment of injury through rehabilitation. Whether managing fluid replacement, performing skin grafts, or guiding long-term healing, the TGH team is committed to restoring health and quality of life. If you or a loved one has experienced a serious burn, don’t wait—visit the TGH Burn Center to receive world-class care from one of the nation’s leading burn treatment facilities.