Abstract: A pressure relief mechanism is incorporated into a modified syringe-type inflation device that may be coupled to a balloon catheter for inflating and deflating the balloon. An engagement mechanism selectively engages and disengages from a threaded shaft for advancing or withdrawing a plunger placed in slidable, yet sealing fit within a cylindrical chamber. In a first engaging position, the threaded shaft may be forcibly advanced or withdrawn in the cylindrical chamber, while in a second disengaged position, the plunger may be quickly pulled back.

Abstract: A pressure relief mechanism is incorporated into a modified syringe-type inflation device that may be coupled to a balloon catheter for inflating and deflating the balloon. An engagement mechanism selectively engages and disengages from a threaded shaft for advancing or withdrawing a plunger placed in slidable, yet sealing fit within a cylindrical chamber. In a first engaging position, the threaded shaft may be forcibly advanced or withdrawn in the cylindrical chamber, while in a second disengaged position, the plunger may be quickly pulled back.

Abstract: A method of making a suction catheter having grooves and suction holes in the grooves is disclosed which includes the step of clamping a tube to effect a bulge and moving a knife longitudinally of the tube to skive the outer portion of the bulge to form a groove after clamping pressures are removed. Holes are formed in the bottom walls of the grooves. Skiving apparatus is disclosed which includes a clamping device for positioning and bulging a tube adjacent one end, and a knife relatively movable longitudinally of the tube to skive the bulge.