Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus catheter includes a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a ventilation circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and a valve mechanism disposed adjacent the ventilation circuit to minimize the draw of air from the ventilation circuit of a patient while the catheter is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's ventilation circuit.

Abstract: An extension regulator for catheter carried medical instruments which extend from the distal end of the catheter or a point adjacent thereto, includes a regulator which is disposed on a hand-held deployment mechanism used to extend and retract the medical instrument. The deployment mechanism includes a body, and a sliding member which is attached to the connector and which slides along the body between a first position, wherein the medical instrument is retracted, and a second position wherein the medical instrument is fully extended. The regulator limits movement of the sliding member toward the second position to thereby limit extension of the medical instrument from the catheter.

Abstract: Filtration and closure barriers are disclosed which prevent passage of gas-carried contamination between the atmosphere and a collapsible sheath, which surrounds a catheter tube, during insertion and/or removal of the catheter tube from the respiratory tract of a medical patient.