Base deficit as an indicator or resuscitation needs in patients with burn injuries.

The utility of base deficit (BD) as a marker of shock and as an indicator of resuscitation requirements has been recognized in the trauma population. Base deficit in thermally injured patients has not been closely examined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of initial BD related to other resuscitation parameters in thermally injured patients. Burn center records over a 2-year period were reviewed; patients who survived at least 24 hours and had initial arterial blood gases were included. Parkland estimated fluid requirements underestimated actual volume requirements, but Parkland-calculated fluid requirements were related (p < 0.01) to actual volume requirements. BD had a better correlation to actual volume requirements, and a BD of -6 or less correlated with larger burn size (23% +/- 2% vs 47% +/- 9% total body surface area), and markedly increased mortality rate (9% vs 72%, p < 0.001).