Abstract: The endotracheal tube system (10) includes an endotracheal tube (12), an auxiliary sterilizing tube (20), and a sterilizing agent source (28) for sterilization of the endotracheal tube (12) while it is in use. The endotracheal tube (12) is an elongated, hollow tube having a distal end (14) and a proximal end (16). An inflatable cuff (18) is disposed on the elongated hollow tube (12), adjacent the distal end (14). The sterilizing tube (20) has a closed distal end (24) and an open proximal end (22). The closed distal end (24) is secured to the elongated hollow tube (12) adjacent the inflatable cuff (18), and a plurality of pores (26) are formed through at least a portion of the sterilizing tube (20). The sterilizing agent source (28) injects chlorhexidine into the sterilizing tube (20), which is distributed to the elongated hollow tube (12) through pores (26).