Abstract: An improved endotracheal suction catheter significantly reduces the probability of segmental atelectasis or mucosal ingestion, by providing a number of spacing blades proximal the inserted tip of the catheter, of a size sufficient to prevent the tubular surface of the catheter from mucosal contact and to prevent bronchial collapse under suction. The tip of the catheter is closed and suction is applied through a plurality of openings located between and distal of the spacing blades. The blades insure continued suction flow throughout the bronchial structure, while preventing mechanical collapse of the bronchial structure or mucosal ingestion into the suction opening. The blades further serve to prevent excessive insertion of the catheter into the bronchial tree during intubation.