Abstract
On the basis of 150 primate experiments utilizing controlled head acceleration the authors conclude that a unitary tolerance for head injury is unrealistic. The topographical distribution of the injured elements is determined by the kinematics of the loading condition because of assymetries of geometry, anatomy and constitutive behavior of the intracranial contents. In light of the findings the effect of acceleration on the brain is presented for the continuum of diffuse brain injuries and for acute subdural hematoma.