Development and multi-level validation of a computational model to predict traumatic aortic injury

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Computational modeling
• Injury prevention

Background:

• Traumatic aortic injury (TAI) is a major cause of death in blunt impact incidents.
• The exact injury mechanisms of TAI in traffic accidents remain unclear due to complex scenarios and limited data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a comprehensive computational model for predicting TAI.
• To investigate TAI mechanisms and establish injury tolerance thresholds.

Main Methods:

• Developed a detailed finite element model of the aorta with nonlinear properties, integrated into a full thorax model.
• Validated the model using simulated in vitro aortic pressurization, sled tests with cadavers, and pendulum impacts.
• Conducted parametric studies to determine aortic injury tolerance under various loading conditions.

Main Results:

• Simulated aortic rupture pressure aligned with experimental data.
• Sled test simulations showed good correlation with experimental chest deflection and aortic pressure.
• No aortic injury was predicted in simulated sled and pendulum impact tests, matching experimental observations.

Conclusions:

• The validated computational model is a valuable tool for understanding TAI.
• The model can aid in evaluating aortic injury tolerance and informing the development of prevention strategies for traffic accidents.