The Moore burn formula, developed by Cope and Moore, is a historical guideline for intravenous fluid resuscitation in burn patients, using equal parts plasma and saline. It's important to note that modern burn resuscitation typically uses crystalloid-based formulas like the Parkland formula.
Details of the Moore Formula
The Moore formula prescribed a specific amount of fluid based on the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burned:
- Fluid Calculation: 150 ml of fluid (equal parts plasma and saline) for each 1% TBSA burn.
- Plus: Maintenance fluids were also provided during the first 24 hours post-injury.
Example: A patient with a 30% TBSA burn would receive 4500 ml (150 ml x 30) of fluid (half plasma, half saline) plus maintenance fluids within the first 24 hours.
Why it's Historically Significant
The Moore formula represented an early attempt to quantify fluid needs in burn patients, recognizing the relationship between burn size and fluid requirements. It paved the way for more refined formulas used today.
Modern Burn Resuscitation
While historically relevant, the Moore formula is not the standard of care today. Current burn resuscitation guidelines, like the Parkland formula, primarily use crystalloid solutions (e.g., Lactated Ringer's) and often incorporate monitoring parameters to guide fluid administration. This is because excessive fluid resuscitation, regardless of the specific fluid type, can lead to complications like pulmonary edema and abdominal compartment syndrome.
