Computational modeling of blunt force trauma to the atlanto-occipital joint: Implications for Forensic Pathology

Abstract

Background

The biomechanical response of the atlanto-occipital joint to blunt force trauma is an under-researched area in forensic pathology. This study investigates the joint's behavior under various impact scenarios using computational modeling, aiming to provide insights for enhancing postmortem examinations and injury analysis in forensic investigations.

Materials and methods

A computational model of the atlanto-occipital joint was developed, incorporating ligament properties, muscle forces, and equations of motion. Simulations were performed under 3000N and 5000N forces at 45°, with original and reduced damping conditions. Ligament tearing likelihood was assessed by comparing deformation to literature thresholds, and data were analyzed using Chi-square statistics and relative risk analysis.

Results

The study revealed that reduced damping significantly increased the vulnerability to tearing in the LAO and AAOL ligaments (p < 0.05), with the Barkow Ligament demonstrating an inherent susceptibility to traumatic disruption. Relative risk analysis showed that reducing damping had a higher risk of tearing compared to increasing force. The findings demonstrate that fatal joint damage can occur without excessive force or concurrent skeletal injuries.

Conclusion

This study provides a computational model for simulating the atlanto-occipital joint's response to blunt force trauma and introduces an innovative action table to guide postmortem examinations based on simulation results. The action table offers a systematic approach for forensic pathologists to examine injuries, identify patterns, assess forces, consider substance effects, and evaluate fatality risks and enhances the precision and reliability of forensic assessments in cases involving atlanto-occipital joint injuries.