Abstract: An apparatus and method useful in offshore well drilling operations for cleaning the annular space between mudline suspension risers during and after cementing operations to assure that riser backout may be accomplished if a temporary abandonment of a well is to take place. A two-section drive pipe having a quick stab connector between the upper and lower sections of the pipe is provided with ports around the periphery of the lower section and above the mudline. Circulation of fluid down high pressure hoses connected to these ports and up the annulus between the drive pipe and well conductor string within the drive pipe is established using rig pumps located on the deck of the rig. Simultaneously, cement slurry is pumped down the well conductor string to the bottom of the well and up the annulus between the drive pipe and well conductor string.