Role of Falx on Brain Stress-Strain Responses

Abstract

The objective of this chapter is to provide a review of the role of falx cerebri on brain mechanics, specifically stress and strain responses due to dynamic loading. Because stress-strain responses are inherently intrinsic, the review is focused on physical and computational models using the finite element method. In order to maintain the focus, although experimental animal models are used as validations tools for ensuring the confidence in the finite element or physical model output, discussions from biological tests are not a subject matter. While finite element modeling of the human head has been a subject matter f investigation for decades, a review of literature provides very few analyses regarding the role of falx on the internal stress-strain responses of the brain. As described, physical and finite element models have shown that the falx cerebri, present in the human head, affects the intrinsic response of the brain under contact- and inertia-induced dynamic loads. Physical models using a brain substitute have also shown a similar response. Regional stresses and strains from these models are discussed. The chapter concludes with some recommendations for further studies.