Determining the Tractional Forces on Vitreoretinal Interface Using a Computer Simulation Model in Abusive Head Trauma

PurposeAbusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of infant death and long-term morbidity from injury. The ocular consequences AHT are controversial, pathophysiology retinal research findings still not clearly understood. It has been postulated that vitreoretinal traction plays a major role in findings. A computer simulation model was developed to evaluate determine whether distribution forces different layers locations retina can explain patterns hemorrhage (RH) seen AHT.DesignComputer study.MethodsA pediatric eye preretinal, intraretinal, subretinal stresses during repetitive shaking. This also used examine applied various segments along blood vessels.ResultsCalculated stress values ranged 3-16 kPa at interface through cycle Maximal observed periphery retina, corresponding areas multiple vessel bifurcations, followed by posterior pole retina. Stress were similar throughout all 3 (preretinal, layers).ConclusionsOcular manifestations revealed unique characteristics. predicted consistent with diffuse hemorrhages typically found around peripheral AHT. demonstrated produced finding often These data help RH commonly Abusive Computer study. vessels. Calculated layers). Ocular