Blood loss estimation at skin graft surgery following burns

Abstract

This is a descriptive study carried out at Kenyatta National Hospital to estimate blood loss per one percent of total body surface area excised and grafted in bum patients. The study was done from November 2003 to April 2004. Total of fifty-three adult patients were selected and haemoglobin concentration was measured preoperatively and post operatively fourty-eight hours after surgery. Estimated blood lass calculated according to Snelling and Shaw formula, which is based on, that of Mollison (1979). The average value for blood loss was 170mls per percent bum excised and grafted. There was no statistical difference between males and females for bum excised and grafted. These finding do not apply to either very young or the very old and those patients who have bleeding disorder This figure will give guide for adequate estimation of the amount of blood needed by bum patient during skin excision and grafting