Abstract: A braking device includes a brake block which can be actuated by a wedge mechanism which has first and second wedge elements. Each wedge element has at least one contact face beveled in the manner of a wedge, with the contact faces of the wedge elements opposing one another. The brake block is fitted to a side of one of the wedge elements which is remote from the contact face. The one wedge element can be moved in reciprocating fashion in a longitudinal direction relative to the other wedge element so that, owing to the wedge action of the beveled contact faces, the brake block moves in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction toward or away from the brake disk. At least one linear actuator, which is free from rotational movement and is mechanically connected to the one wedge element, moves the one wedge element back and forth in the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating occluded or partially occluded vessels comprising a device for treating occluded or partially occluded vessels comprising, a double-balloon inflatable device being deployed by a catheter having a central channel for continuous blood flow, wall of central channel includes a cutting or abrasion instrument for disrupting the epithelium of the vessel wall, said balloons provide a washable volume for introducing plaque dissolving fluid that is pumped in an inlet and out an outlet, and a stent is located in the lumen of the device and can be deployed after the plaque removal process when the devices is being removed.