Abstract: A novel endoscopic intubator which permits atraumatic intubation through the cricopharyngeal sphincter of the esophagus without risk of perforation of the esophagus or pharynx. The intubator of the present invention comprises a deformable hood for shielding and carrying the distal end of the endoscope, the hood having two deformable leaves which define a pocket for receiving the distal end, an elongaed conduit joined to the hood for external manipulation of the hood, the length of conduit being at least coextensive with the length of the shaft of the endoscope so that a proximal end of the conduit protrudes from the patient's mouth, and an annular gripping member secured to the proximal end of the conduit to permit an endoscopist to slidably withdraw the hood from the distal end.

Abstract: A unique ingestible and retrievable ambulatory esophageal monitor for colorimetric analysis of ambient pH within selected portions of the esophagus comprising a nasoesophgeal conduit at least one generally transparent semi-permeable envelope carried proximal the distal end of the conduit for positioning within the distal esophagus. The envelope contains an ion exchange color indicator composition comprised of a weak cation exchange substance selected from the group comprising a resin, a cellulose or an agarose and intermixed and bound therein being an indicator dye preferably either methylene blue or azure A. The ion exchange substance having a disassociation potential (pK) of at least 4 so that the indicator dye selectively disassociates causing the envelope to visually discolorize when exposed to a clinically significant ambient pH of 4 or less within the esophagus.