Stent crimping tool insert, system, and method

摘要

A stent crimping tool insert comprises a core body configured for insertion into and removal from within a crimping chamber of a stent crimping tool. The core body has a core surface configured to withstand a compressive force without a reduction in diameter of the core surface.

主权项

1. A stent crimping method comprising:
inserting a stent within a crimping chamber of a stent crimping tool, the stent having a starting diameter, the stent crimping tool having a crimping surface for crimping the stent; moving the crimping surface of the stent crimping tool, the movement of the crimping surface causing the stent to be crimped to a crimped diameter less than the starting diameter, wherein when the stent reaches the crimped diameter, a stent crimping tool insert within the crimping chamber resists or stops the movement of the crimping surface; and coupling the stent crimping tool insert to the stent before or after the inserting of the stent within the crimping chamber, wherein the stent is carried on a catheter and the coupling of the stent crimping tool insert to the stent comprises mounting the stent crimping tool insert on the catheter.