Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2026
A Novel In Vitro Model of Blast Traumatic Brain Injury
Published on: December 21, 2018
[The disguised face of blast injuries: shock waves]
M Tahir Ozer1, Kağan Coşkun, Gökhan I Oğünç
1Department of General Surgery, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey. mtahirozer@gmail.com
Background:
The increase in terrorist attacks has brought a profound and new knowledge of blast injuries. In order to improve our knowledge regarding the mechanisms of blast injuries, we analyzed the effects of shock waves.
Methods:
100 g TNT and 1000 g C4 were detonated and recorded by high-speed camera. Blast wind, shock wave and shrapnel speeds were calculated, and final condition of the target was examined.
Results:
A flash ball appeared first followed by the shock wave. Finally, blast wind occurred and shrapnel was distributed. The macroscopic structure of targets was not affected by the shock wave but was affected by shrapnel and blast wind. Shock waves created a transparent ballistic gel inside the target mat by changing its microscopic structure. The speed of the shock wave was 6482-7194 m/sn and shrapnel speed was 1420-1752 m/sn.
Conclusion:
Shock waves especially affect the air-filled organs and cause lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and intestinal and eardrum perforation. Blast wind destroys targets due to its high speed and high density. The main cause of mortality is shrapnel injury. The high temperature created by the explosion causes thermal injuries. Being informed of the mechanisms of blast injuries will assist in providing better treatment. Additionally, consideration of all mechanisms of blast injuries will facilitate lower mortality and morbidity rates.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Shock Waves
When the source's speed approaches the speed of sound, constructive interference between successive wavefronts emitted by the source occurs immediately behind it. Initially, scientists believed that this constructive interference would result in such high pressures...
01:26Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
01:22Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...
01:24Blood Pressure Imbalances and Circulatory Shock
Blood Pressure: Hypertension and Hypotension
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is 120-129/under 80 mm Hg. Hypertension, warranting treatment at 130/80 mm Hg, is often asymptomatic and can lead to severe cardiovascular events, aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, chronic renal disease, or cardiac...
01:24Flail Chest-I
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
01:28Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction