Reverse‐Engineered Highly Conformable, Leak and Pressure Reducing Cushion for Neonatal Resuscitation Mask

• DOI: 10.1002/admt.202101364
• Publication Date: 2021-12-30T12:13:41Z
• Authors: Carolyn M. McGann; Young‐Joo Lee; Se‐Um Kim; Danielle D. Weinberg; Xincheng Zha; Matthew Huber; Michael W. Hast; Kayley Dear; Vinay Nadkarni; Elizabeth E. Foglia; Shu Yang
• Keywords: Cushion; Conformable matrix; Neonatal Resuscitation

Abstract A significant proportion of newborn infants need facemask assisted resuscitation to start breathing successfully after birth. Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is the most important intervention yet often impeded by leak. conformable, tacky silica gel that can be attached mask as a cushion developed through reverse engineering. Finite element simulation reveals forms completely sealed interface while alone without has many potential leak sites. Since material 20 times softer than facial tissue, deformation occurs in when applied, resulting fivefold lower contact using conventional only. In trial with realistic preterm manikin, median for PPV inflations 15%, three compared alone, 44%. The time achieve leak‐free 16 s cushion, five faster standard mask, 81 s, allowing more effective ventilation. This study offers promising insights on how design 3D‐contoured, soft silicone between and face significantly improve neonatal performance.