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.