Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for inserting or placing the low profile catheter or system in a patient. The apparatus of the present invention is designed such that it may be used both as an original device as well as a replacement device. The device is also capable of being placed or inserted in a patient in a variety of ways, including, for example, those which are highly invasive, such as those placements or insertions which occur during a surgical procedure, as well as those procedures which are minimally invasive and/or those which produce or result in little or no blood loss and which may or may not require a surgeon to perform. The present invention is intended to cover all such procedures as discussed herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a low profile device having a head, a catheter segment, and a retention mechanism. The head of the catheter has at least two openings through which fluid may pass to or from a patient, the head having a low profile relative to a patient when the catheter is properly positioned in the patient. The catheter has at least a first and second lumen, each lumen being in communication with at least one of the openings of the head. The openings in the head of the catheter are designed to allow for the passage of fluid into the catheter and/or out of the patient. The low profile head may contribute to a reduction in the number of removals or displacements of as compared to traditional “on-low profile” apparatus in that the amount or length of the catheter or system which extends external the patients body is significantly less.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for inserting or placing the low profile catheter or system in a patient. The apparatus of the present invention is designed such that it may be used both as an original device as well as a replacement device. The device is also capable of being placed or inserted in a patient in a variety of ways, including, for example, those which are highly invasive, such as those placements or insertions which occur during a surgical procedure, as well as those procedures which are minimally invasive and/or those which produce or result in little or no blood loss and which may or may not require a surgeon to perform. The present invention is intended to cover all such procedures as discussed herein.