Abstract: An endotracheal tube adapted for ventilating a patient and provided with an inflatable cuff to force air into the patient's lungs includes at least one port that communicates with the inflatable cuff such that, when air is forced down the tube during ventilation, a portion of the air is forced into the inflatable cuff and inflates it, occluding the trachea. During exhalation, the cuff is allowed to partially deflate. The partial deflation during every breathing cycle improves the blood flow to the tracheal tissues and reduces tissue damage from prolonged intubation.

Abstract: A flexible endotracheal tube is described having a proximal end for attachment to an adapter or to another tube. A distal end has an opening for extending past the vocal cords of a patient. An intermediate portion passes between the vocal cords wherein the intermediate portion comprises an outer shape in transverse cross section defined in part by two substantially straight sides converging to a tip. A mouth guard for the endotracheal tube is also described.