STENT LOADING DEVICE WITH FLUID RESERVOIR

A device and method for predictably and controlling the collapsing of a collapsible and expandable stent for subsequent translation through a delivery sheath lumen to an anatomical target such as a heart valve or intravascular location for expansion and implantation. The loading device defines in inner lumen comprising a successively decreasing, from the proximal to the distal direction, inner diameter alternating between two sections of decreasing diameter and two sections of constant diameter until reaching the inner diameter of the delivery sheath. A fluid-filled reservoir is provided at the proximal end of the loading device that is configured to provide moisture or wetting for materials associated with or attached to the stent that require moisture retention. Thus, as the stent is being collapsed with the loading device, at least a portion of the stent may be immersed in the fluid reservoir to preserve the subject material.