A series of head impacts were conducted with 15 unembalmed cadavers. The purpose of the tests was to study the application of three-dimensional motion analysis using accelerometry, brain vascular system pressurization and high speed cineradiography to the understanding of head injury mechanics. The implementation of the techniques is described and their effectiveness is discussed.

The three-dimensional accelerometry technique using nine accelerometers was found to be applicable in direct head impacts. Analysis of the head acceleration data indicates the existence of brain motions which are independent of the motion of the skull. These motions were confirmed by the high speed cineradiographic films. Brain vascular system pressurization and time after death were found to play a role in determining the extent of the brain motions and the resulting brain injuries.