Device for loading an embolic protection filter into a catheter

Abstract

A transvascular embolic protection system for safely capturing and retaining embolic material released during an interventional procedure comprises an embolic protection device ( 1 ) and a delivery catheter ( 2 ) for delivery of the embolic protection device ( 1 ) to a desired location in the vascular system. A pack ( 4 ) is provided to safely store and prepare the embolic protection system for use. The pack ( 4 ) comprises a tray ( 5 ) with a channel ( 6 ) extending in a looped configuration around the tray ( 5 ) for receiving the delivery catheter ( 2 ). A loading device ( 7 ) is mounted in the tray ( 5 ) adjacent to the delivery catheter ( 2 ). The embolic protection device ( 1 ) is mounted in an expanded configuration in a well ( 90 ) in the tray ( 5 ). A pushing device ( 8 ) for loading the collapsible embolic protection device ( 1 ) into the delivery catheter ( 2 ) is mounted in the tray ( 5 ) adjacent to the embolic protection device ( 1 ).

1 . A device for loading an embolic protection filter into a catheter, the device comprising:
 a loading member for collapsing an embolic protection filter;   an outlet of the loading member, being configured to be aligned with an inlet of a catheter extending along at least part of an exterior surface of the catheter for loading of the collapsed embolic protection filter into the catheter.   
     
     
         2 . A device as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the loading member has a passageway extending therethrough, through which an embolic protection filter may be passed to collapse the embolic protection filter. 
     
     
         3 . A device as claimed in  claim 2  wherein the outlet of the loading member comprises an outlet of the passageway. 
     
     
         4 . A device as claimed in  claim 3  wherein an inlet of the passageway has a larger cross-sectional area than the outlet of the passageway. 
     
     
         5 . A device as claimed in  claim 4  wherein the passageway is at least partially funnel-shaped. 
     
     
         6 . A device as claimed in  claim 1  wherein the loading member comprises a tubular part extendable along part of an exterior surface of a catheter, the outlet of the loading member being provided at an end of the tubular part. 
     
     
         7 . A device as claimed in  claim 6  wherein the passageway extends through the tubular part in a substantially cylindrical shape.