the disclosed endotracheal tube includes a silicone tubular member that has a proximal end , a distal end , and a lumen extending through the member to supply air from the proximal end to the distal end . the tubular member defines a first zone and a second zone . at least a portion of the first zone has a first outer diameter . the second zone has a second outer diameter . the first outer diameter is less than the second outer diameter . the first and second zones are adjacent to one another and are configured for insertion into the trachea of a human patient . a silicon cuff is attached to the tubular member such that the cuff extends over at least a portion of the first zone . the silicone cuff is mounted such that when the cuff is inflated in a trachea , the cuff reaches its plateau pressure prior to circumferentially contacting the inner wall of the trachea so that an accurate pressure reading may be taken of the pressure the cuff exerts on an inner wall of the trachea .