Patent ID: 6892731

Claim:
A method for removing an inflatable laryngeal mask from a patient without dislodging any inserted endotracheal tubes or related medical instruments into the patient's laryngeal opening by using a tube retaining device, the method comprising the steps of: inserting the tube retaining device through an opening in the inflatable laryngeal mask exterior to the oral cavity; securing the tube retaining device within a proximal end of the previously inserted endo-tracheal tube within said inflatable laryngeal mask; deflating said inflatable laryngeal mask; simultaneously withdrawing said deflated inflatable laryngeal mask from the patient's oral cavity and exerting a retaining force on the tube retaining device sufficient to prevent friction from dislodging said endo-tracheal tube; and sliding the inflatable laryngeal mask off the proximal end of said retaining device.