Title: The Brain in Motion: Brain Biomechanics and Traumatic Brain Injury

Speaker: Professor Philip Bayly, Washington University in St. Louis

Date/Time: Friday, September 3, 2010, 9:30 am       

Location: CSRI Building/Room 90 (Sandia NM)

Brief Abstract: Computer models of head-brain biomechanics offer enormous potential for improved understanding and prevention of traumatic brain injury (TBI).  However mathematical models of TBI must include measured mechanical properties of the skull and brain, and their predictions rigorously compared to measured biomechanical data. The nonlinear, anisotropic, viscoelastic, heterogeneous character of brain tissue, the intricate connections between the brain and skull, and the difficulty of visualizing the well-protected brain, all complicate modeling efforts. In order to make progress toward the goal of accurate simulation of TBI, experimental techniques to address these issues must be developed. In this paper we describe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to characterize brain deformation, estimate brain material properties, and illuminate the boundary conditions between brain and skull.

CSRI POC: Paul Taylor, 5431, 844-1960, pataylo@sandia.gov