A semi-rigid tube connected to an inflatable ring and a vacuum source is provided. The inflatable ring may be inserted into the trachea air passageway of a person, then inflated to form a seal against the inner surface of the air passageway of the person. A central through hole of the ring is in fluid communication with the tube as well as a lower portion of the air passageway of the person below the ring. The vacuum source applies a vacuum to the tube as well as the central through hole of the ring and the lower portion of the air passageway of the person to remove lodged objects stuck in the air passageway of the person. Once the lodged object is removed from the air passageway, the ring may be deflated and the tube/ring removed from the air passageway of the person so that the person can now breathe normally.
