It was definitely a packed episode! I was also surprised at the black pean just being symbolic... I don't understand why everyone is so impressed by it. Saeki even has one on his desk?? So weird. I guess it's an interesting contrast with the snipe, though.

3) I agree! When I watched it raw to start with, I had no idea who was doing which surgery. Hopefully we can learn to recognise them as the series goes on...