Abstract: A predetermined arrangement of differentially lubricious areas on a balloon catheter for controlling against unexpected movement of a stent carried thereon when in situ in the body.

Abstract: An improved catheter and catheter system for long term implantation in a patient through a percutaneous access device are provided. The improved catheter has a loop in an external lead portion of the catheter which reduces bending, kinking, and cracking of the catheter and which reduces stress on the catheter and on the percutaneous access device as well. The system employs multiple catheters, each catheter having a loop to reduce stress. Each of the catheters of the system may have a single lumen or multiple lumens. A method of relieving stress at an external lead portion of a single or multi-lumen catheter is also provided.