Effects of blast overpressure
Warfighters, especially those in Special Operations, can experience repeated subconcussive blast exposures (RSCBE) when using high explosives and heavy weapon systems. The Investigating Training Associated Blast Pathology (INVICTA) study assesses the short and long-term effects RSCBE has on brain structure and function in Special Operator (SO) heavy weapon trainees, Range Safety Officers (RSOs), and active duty controls.
With permission from Command leadership, INVICTA is conducted during SQT and ULT. Detailed baseline assessments are conducted prior to heavy weapons training, with subsequent assessments through three months for SOs, and two years for RSOs.
INVICTA utilizes blast monitoring sensors to measure and record exposure events. Data from these sensors are paired with results from the study’s cognitive (e.g., memory, attention), physiological (e.g., blood, EEG) and functional (e.g., balance, vision, hearing) tests to generate a comprehensive assessment of the brain’s response to RSCBE.
For additional information about INVICTA, contact the study team:
Email: INVICTA@usuhs.edu
Call or Text: East Coast (202-381-8390), West Coast (301-461-3456)