Balloon catheter folding and wrapping devices and methods

摘要

A balloon folding apparatus is provided for use in the manufacture of balloon catheters. The balloon folding apparatus includes a plurality of arms and a plurality of blades attached to the plurality of arms such that the plurality of blades is capable of translating in a radial direction. Preferably, a plurality of stepper motors coupled to the plurality of arms provides precise radial movement of the plurality of blades. Each of the plurality of blades is profiled to create a plurality of folds in a balloon catheter. A balloon wrapping apparatus is also provided and operates in a similar manner. The balloon wrapping apparatus includes a plurality of blades configured to wrap a folded balloon catheter around a catheter shaft so as to minimize the diameter of the balloon catheter.