Drug Coated Stent Crimping

In 2005, MSI revolutionized the method for crimping drug coated stents with our film head technology. This innovation eliminated the painstaking process of loading protective crimping sheaths by using two layers of 0.001″ PTFE film as a protective barrier around the stent surface. A single layer of film protects the stent during the crimping process. The film-handling system eliminates the risk of film gaps (which can damage the drug coating), and film overlap (which can cause non-uniform crimping).

The film-handling system applies constant tension to the film, so the entire diameter range of the crimping process occurs with the press of a button. Automatic film handling has helped device manufacturers significantly reduce cycle times. And this technology even supports heating the stainless steel crimp head segments, resulting in optimal stent securement values. Best of all, the film head technology is available on a number of automated crimping platforms.

The MSI SC775S/875S stent crimping equipment maximizes operator efficiency and streamlines product handling through automation, process control and feedback. The platform features multi-stage profiles with crimp-to-force and crimp-to-diameter movements, which is especially important for minimizing the recoil associated with cobalt-chromium stents. Staged interrupts allow for in-process inspection and re-sheathing, and synchronized balloon vacuum and inflation can increase stent retention. The built-in process alarms on the SC775S/875S ensure that the crimping process remains in control.

The MSI SC1775S automated PTCA stent crimping equipment includes optional automation features such as vision assistance, automated product handling, bar code scanning, dual axis laser micrometer, leak detection and data networking.