An MRI-derived head-neck finite element model.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Computational Modeling
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Accurate head-neck biomechanical models are crucial for understanding injury mechanisms.
• Existing models often lack detailed anatomical representation and validation against experimental data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a biofidelic head-neck finite element (FE) model using MRI data.
• To create a computational platform for advancing brain and head injury research.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of protective equipment in various impact scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Developed a head-neck FE model incorporating scalp, skull, brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), dura mater, pia mater, cervical vertebrae, discs, ligaments, and neck muscles.
• Utilized a novel brain hexahedral meshing algorithm and a scalp erosion model based on MRI scans of a healthy male participant.
• Validated the model by replicating three experimental studies: Alshareef's brain sonomicrometry, NBDL's high-acceleration profile, and Ito's frontal impact cervical vertebrae study.

Main Results:

• Segmented geometries closely aligned with literature data (within 3σ).
• Brain displacement results showed good correlation (r=0.48-0.96) with Alshareef's study.
• Head-neck kinematic responses strongly correlated (r>0.97) with NBDL's experimental results.
• Cervical spine peak shear strain values were within 1σ of Ito's experimental data.

Conclusions:

• The developed head-neck FE model is a validated computational tool.
• The model effectively simulates biomechanical responses during impact scenarios.
• This platform is valuable for advancing brain injury research and protective equipment development.