Abstract: Medical devices are disclosed which are adapted for indwelling placement in a patient. In one device, a flexible tubular catheter is adapted for placement with its distal end inside of the body and its proximal end outside of the body, and defines a lumen which provides a fluid passageway between its proximal and distal ends. The flexible tubular member has multiple engagement elements located on its outside surface, and an external bolster is provided which includes multiple engagement elements complementary to the engagement elements located on the tubular catheter for adjustably coupling the bolster and the tubular catheter. After placement, the bolster locks to the tubular member such that the bolster can rest securely close to the skin surface. In a first disclosed embodiment, a compression element locks the bolster to the tubular member after selective positioning of the bolster onto the tubular member.

Abstract: A catheter with an adjustable, external locking bolster. The catheter is for insertion into a body and includes a distal tip which is positioned inside the body, and a tubular member which is in communication with the distal tip. A portion of the tubular member exists outside the body and is provided on its outer surface with engagement elements. An external coupling has matching engagement elements for selective, adjustable securement to the tubular member. A compression element is provided which locks the external coupling to the tubular element and prevents slippage. The adjustable engagement allows a low profile, close to the skin appearance, while the compression element securely locks the external coupling to the tubular member.