What part of the inflation device is used to inject the contrast/saline mixture into the balloon?

The plunger is the component of the inflation device specifically designed to inject the contrast or saline mixture into the balloon. When the operator pushes down on the plunger, it forces the fluid through the tubing and into the balloon, allowing for inflation. This action is crucial as it helps control the volume and pressure of the inflating agent, which is essential for properly expanding the balloon within the vascular system or other structures during an interventional radiology procedure.

The other components have different functions: the barrel contains the fluid and provides a chamber from which the fluid is expelled when the plunger is engaged, the pressure gauge measures the pressure of the inflation process, and the tubing acts as a conduit to transport the fluid from the barrel to the balloon. While these parts play significant roles in the functionality of the inflation device, it is the plunger that directly enables the injection of the contrast or saline mixture into the balloon.