This paper discusses, in general, spinal cord injuries from a biomechanical point of view. The relationship between various loading conditions and the resulting types of spinal cord injuries is discussed. The paper also examines seven real world automobile accidents. Information for each case includes: vehicles involved, type of roadway, crash Delta-V, occupant direction of motion, restraint type, injuries to occupants, and anthropometry of child with spinal cord injury. A description and location of each spinal cord injury that occurred at the time of the accident is discussed. A discussion of a possible injury mechanism for spinal cord stretch injuries to children is also given. The results of the research indicate The results of the research indicate that infants should ride in rearward-facing child restraint systems as long as possible. (A)
Abstract