Abstract: An implantable medical device 10 such as a catheter with a controlled-release pharmacologically active ingredient for minimizing the risk of infection or other physiological afflictions associated with the implantation thereof. The device includes a base material and a controlled-release outer layer containing a bioactive material, for example, paclitaxel.

Abstract: A foot pedal irrigation system allows a physician or other operating person to control the flow of irrigation fluid to a diagnostic or therapeutic device without using the physician's hands. The system attaches to one or more bags of irrigation fluid and uses clamps on inlet and output tubing. The system may include a visual drip chamber to monitor fluid flow without applying pressure to a foot pump which is part of the system. When increased irrigation is desired, the physician presses with a foot on the foot pedal pump; one way valves assure the increased one-way flow of fluid from the pump to the diagnostic or therapeutic device.