LOADER AND RETRIEVER FOR TRANSCATHETER HEART VALVE, AND METHODS OF CRIMPING TRANSCATHETER HEART VALVE

摘要

A loader and method for loading a transcatheter heart valve into a delivery sheath or catheter is described that is also configured to facilitate retrieval of the heart valve back through the delivery sheath while protecting the delivery sheath from damage. Another loader provides for easier crimping and loading of a THV into a delivery sheath or catheter from a storage jar or container. A method for crimping a THV facilitates easier end user preparation of the valve for implantation and reduces the likelihood of tissue deformation in the valve during storage. These devices and methods for deploying THVs simplify the valve replacement procedure.

主权项

1. A loader assembly for loading a transcatheter heart valve into a delivery sheath for delivering the heart valve into a body of a patient, the loader assembly comprising:
a loader tube having a first end, a second end, and a central axis extending through the first and second ends, the loader tube comprising a tube wall defining a coaxial bore, wherein the tube wall has a first section at the first end with a first diameter, a second section connected to a distal end of the first section and having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and a third section connected to a distal end of the second section and having a third diameter greater than the second diameter; and at least one seal configured to maintain hemostasis in the loader tube when the coaxial bore of the loader tube is in communication with a blood vessel of the patient.