[Circular fractures of the skull base during traffic accidents]

With reference to 5 cases of circular fracture of the base of the skull occurring in relation to road accidents, the literature is reviewed. Two different types may be distinguished: --"compression" fractures, --"hyperextension' fractures, the latter being special on the basis of the site of the fracture line and the application of forces via the face or chin. Reconstruction of trajectories during accidents, on the basis of the anatomical lesions and the damage caused to vehicles, as well as the study of films made during the experimental reproduction of similar lesions, make it possible to explain the mode of production of these hyperextension fractures. Such understanding is essential to the study of safety precautions for vehicle occupants.