By Mike Smith, BS, MICP

The NuMask IntraOral Mask/OPA Kit from NuMask

To be honest, when I walked up to the NuMask booth to do the product evaluation, I looked at the product and thought to myself, "What's that?" I just didn't get it, mostly, I think, because the bottom of the device is similar to a scuba or snorkeling mouthpiece. As it turns out, a scuba mouthpiece is in fact what the design of the NuMask is based upon.

After getting over my initial product shock, I found reason after reason to like this device. Unlike a traditional mask-ventilation format, which is difficult to use because of the inherent difficulty in obtaining and maintaining an adequate seal, the NuMask IntraOral Mask fits behind the lips and in front of the gumline/teeth. It's easy to place, and the seal achieved with the device placed against the posterior element of the lips is outstanding. A bearded face...no longer a problem, since there is no face mask to seal. No dentures in place, again no problem, as it's the lips and gumline that make the seal happen.

The oropharyngeal airway portion of this device is also worth noting, since it is a custom, cut-to-fit OPA. Measure from the tragus of the ear to the corner of the mouth, take your shears and trim it on the money. The OPA presses in place on the back of the NuMask, and you are good to go.

Use the NuMask with CPAP and BiPAP and you'll be amazed at its fuctionality. The bottom line is pretty clear to me. This is an outstanding execution of a simple, yet great idea. Put your old ideas about mask ventilation behind and take a really close look at the NuMask IntraOral Mask and OPA. I'll be surprised if they don't become a mainstay in your airway bag.

http://www.emsworld.com/print/EMS-World/2010-EMS-World-Innovation-Awards/1$15749