Abstract: A ventilating/aspirating apparatus, and related methods, the apparatus comprising a catheter tube for evacuation of lung secretions wherein th distal end portion of the catheter tube is disposed at a substantial angle in respect to the remainder of the catheter tube whereby entry into the left lung of a patient may be predictably and accurately tended to without appreciable trauma to the patient. A removable angle retainer is provided for maintaining the configuration of the distal and portion of the catheter tube during storage, prior to use. Radiopaque indicia, selectively located within the wall of the catheter tube, is provided by which the entry of the distal end portion of the catheter tube into the lungs and particulary the left lung of the medical patient can be insured through accurate mointoring visually or by using available radiological techniques.