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This exploratory study suggests that novices have difficulty using articulating instruments and perform better using straight laparoscopic instruments when first attempting LESS surgical tasks. Although a study with post-graduate medical trainees is needed to confirm these results, trainees should initially practice LESS with non-articulating instruments to gain proficiency at basic laparoscopic tasks. Additionally, redesigning articulating instruments to specifically address the spatial constraints and learning curve of LESS may also improve trainee performance and instrument usability.

Ventilation is an important part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed by medical professionals. The self-inflating bag valve mask (BVM) is often used to deliver rescue breaths during CPR. As resuscitation may last for extended periods of time, it is important that the equipment used reduces the potential of operator fatigue, which could lead to decreased performance and substandard patient care. The NuMask is an intraoral mask designed as an alternative to the pre-inflated mask typically used with a BVM. This pilot study uses muscle exertion electromyography, Borg’s CR10 pain scale, and a Likert-scale questionnaire to compare muscle contraction, fatigue, and user preference between these two interfaces when ventilating a difficult airway mannequin. No significant differences were found in muscle pain or interface preference, but significantly lower muscular exertion by the non-dominant thenar eminence when using the NuMask suggests this interface could reduce user fatigue during extended periods of ventilation. A larger, more conclusive study is necessary to confirm these results.

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