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Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is one of the most common combat injuries, with blast-related injuries being unique to the military contexts and making up a substantial proportion of all military-related mTBI.

Blast-induced mTBI (BINT) occurs from exposure to overpressure caused by detonations, often linked to improvised explosive devices, heavy ammunition weapons use, and training with explosives as in breaching of buildings. Despite decades of research, the mechanisms, treatment, and recovery for BINT remain poorly understood.

Research focus

The Experimental Traumatology unit at ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ is investigating BINT using advanced experimental models. Our unique setup replicates military-relevant blast waves and allows for controlled studies on neurological damage, biomarkers, and neurodegenerative processes.

The research initiative has the potential to significantly improve our understanding of blast-related traumatic brain injuries (bTBI). By identifying biomarkers and mapping injury mechanisms, the findings could enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of BINT. Insights into neurodegenerative processes will lead to the development of targeted therapies, while the evaluation of protective equipment, such as advanced helmet designs, could reduce the incidence of BINT.

Furthermore, exploring behavioral impacts and treatment interventions could enhance rehabilitation strategies, improving the quality of life for affected individuals. This work may also contribute to evidence-based military guidelines, minimizing risks for personnel in both combat and training environments.

Key Features

The primary blast wave is a high-speed pressure gradient caused by an explosion categorized by a high amplitude and short duration of energy delivery to the tissue which distinguishes it from most of the civilian mTBI from falls, traffic accidents, etc.

Injury mechanisms on the organ and tissue level from this delivery of energy are not fully understood, but shearing of tissues, especially at borders with tissue of different density, due to movement of the blast wave and the pressure variations within the tissue, has been discussed.

Injuries include contusions, microhemorrhages, vessel and axonal damage, which can result in symptoms like headaches, PTSD, cognitive deficits, sleeping disorders, and hearing loss.

Repeated exposures to BOP is increasingly linked to long-term effects such as behavioral changes and suicide risks, as highlighted in The New York Times.