A balloon-tipped suction catheter, for extirpating and aspirating tracheobronchial secretions from the trachea, endotracheal tube or tracheostomy tube and a method for using such catheter. The catheter preferably embodies an elongated tube with a cannula extending along the elongated tube. The distal end of the cannula communicates with an expandable membrane or balloon which is attached either to the walls of the distal end of the elongated tube or directly to the distal end of the cannula. Proximal to the expandable membrane are apertures which provide fluid communication between the exterior and interior of the elongated tube. A control port is provided at the proximal end of the catheter to control the transmission of suction through the catheter.In use, the catheter of this invention is inserted into an endotracheal tube, for example, to remove secretions. Positive end expiratory pressure ("PEEP") can be maintained by inserting the catheter through a "Y" connector assembly with a self-sealing diaphragm assembly. After the desired location is reached, the expandable membrane is inflated until it seals against the walls of the passageway. The control port is left uncovered until the membrane is inflated. The catheter is withdrawn and secretions are removed by the squeegee action of the balloon wall against the passageway wall and by aspiration.