Abstract: High flow rate catheters, and related methods, are useful in dialysis and other procedures. A catheter according to the invention comprises a hub and a generally elongated conduit. The conduit has a substantially continuous and smooth wall. The conduit also defines at least one lumen and has a length extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the conduit. The proximal end is coupled to a hub and the distal end has an opening in communication with the lumen. The conduit has a conical shape which tapers along the length.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a slit valve catheter has a generally tubular catheter body with an exterior surface exposed to an environment and an interior surface defining a lumen. The catheter further includes a valve which has a protuberance projecting radially from the catheter body.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a slit valve catheter has a generally tubular catheter body with an exterior surface exposed to an environment and an interior surface defining a lumen. The catheter further includes a valve which has a protuberance projecting radially from the catheter body.

Abstract: A balloon dilatation catheter is provided with a pleated balloon defining at least three pleats and alternating wings. When the balloon collapses, it tends to assume a pleated configuration which defines a lower profile and is better adapted to pass through narrow channels, such as a guide catheter. The balloon is formed from a polymeric material in a method that involves the steps of extruding a tube having at least three circumferentially spaced, longitudinally extending segments of less wall thickness than the remainder of the tube, and biaxially stretching the tube to a predefined shape while maintaining the longitudinal segments of reduced wall thickness.