VirtualBaby: Towards Diagnosis and Treatment of Abusive Head Trauma

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS)/Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) is a significant global health issue and a leading cause of infant mortality due to non-accidental injury. The diagnosis of SBS/AHT is complex and controversial, with biomechanics often at the core of debates.

This project aims to address the challenges with three objectives: unveiling biomechanical myths, advancing case-specific analysis, and pioneering treatment innovations.

Our strategy involves creating VirtualBaby biomechanical models that capture detailed anatomical and disease specific features through advanced neuroimaging.

Enhanced with comprehensive real-life forensic case data and integrating previously neglected factors, these models hold promise to revolutionize our understanding of AHT.

The innovative biomechanical insight will then merge with neuroimaging, artificial intelligence, computer science, and forensic medicine to advance case-specific analysis.

An online platform will be delivered that consolidatesour findings, envisioned as a pioneering tool for evidence-based forensic diagnosis, to better protect the most vulnerable children and, equally important, to decrease the number of wrongful convictions of innocent parents/caretakers.

Beyond immediate forensic applications, the project’s impact goes beyond, with identified pathways for using the developed VirtualBaby in innovating baby care, protection, prevention, and treatment,offering holistic benefits to the youngest members of our society.