Importance

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Abstract

A endotracheal tube protector for use with an endotracheal tube comprises an elongated tubular member having a first end configured to extend out of a patient's mouth when in use and a second end configured to enter the throat of the patient. The tubular member has openings in the first and second ends and defines a substantially cylindrical cavity with an interior wall configured to hold an endotracheal tube therewithin. The tubular member has a longitudinal slit for inducing radial expansion of the cavity and a pair of opposed bosses formed longitudinally in the tubular member at positions adjacent to the slit. The opposed bosses are configured to project into the cavity and to transmit a clamping force onto the endotracheal tube when contacted by the upper teeth of the patient when the endotracheal tube protector is in use and oriented such that the slit faces toward the roof of the patient's mouth.

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First Claim