Patent Publication Number: US-2022211480-A1

Title: Integrated loading and storage system for implantable medical devices

Description:
FIELD 
     The present technology is generally related to loading and storage systems for medical devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Currently, implantable medical devices, such as stents, scaffolds, and other cardiac intervention devices that contain organic tissue, e.g., bovine and porcine, require onsite installation onto a delivery device. This is due to the need to store the implantable devices in conditions specific to preserve the organic tissue. Typically, a detailed process must be performed in order to install a medical device on a delivery device. The detailed process, however, can be cumbersome and costly due to the potential of damaging the implantable medical device during the installation. 
     SUMMARY 
     The techniques of this disclosure generally relate to a combination storage and loading system for loading an implantable medical device onto a delivery device and converting the implantable medical device from an uncompressed state to a compressed state. 
     In one aspect, the disclosure provides a device for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices. The device includes a locking collar assembly including a proximal end, a distal end, and a loading channel formed between the proximal end and the distal end. The device also includes a loading funnel coupled to the distal end of the locking collar assembly at a proximal end of the loading funnel. The loading funnel is configured to store a collapsible medical device within a tapered interior volume of the loading funnel in a partially collapsed state. The tapered interior volume decreases in volume from a distal end of the loading funnel to the proximal end of the loading funnel. The device includes a retainer positioned with the loading channel at the distal end of the locking collar assembly and includes a connector configured to couple to a delivery device. The collapsible medical appliance is coupled to the retainer. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading funnel prior to connection to the delivery device. The device further includes a nosecone pin coupled to the retainer and positioned within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. Additionally, the device includes a storage jar coupled to a distal end of the loading funnel. The storage jar is configured retain the collapsible medical device and the nosecone pin within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. 
     In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a device for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices. The device includes a locking collar assembly including a proximal end, a distal end, and a loading channel formed between the proximal end and the distal end. The device also includes a loading funnel coupled to the distal end of the locking collar assembly at a proximal end of the loading funnel. The loading funnel is configured to store a collapsible medical device in a partially collapsed state within a tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. The tapered interior volume decreases in volume from a distal end of the loading funnel to the proximal end of the loading funnel. Further, the device includes a retainer positioned with the loading channel at the distal end of the locking collar assembly and includes a connector configured to couple to a delivery device. The collapsible medical device is coupled to the retainer. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading funnel prior to connection to the delivery device. The device includes a nosecone pin coupled to the retainer and positioned within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. Additionally, the device includes a funnel cap coupled to the distal end of the loading funnel. The funnel cap is configured retain the collapsible medical device and the nosecone pin within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. 
     In another aspect, the disclosure provides a method for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices. The method includes washing, with a sterile solution, a collapsible medical device that is stored within a tapered interior volume of a loading device in a partially collapsed state. The method also includes coupling a delivery device to a retainer positioned within the loading device. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading device in the partially collapsed state prior to connection to the delivery device. Additionally, the method includes retracting the retainer through a loading channel of the loading device, where retracting retainer causes the collapsible medical device to move through the tapered interior volume to compress the collapsible medical device. The method includes removing the loading device from the delivery device. The method also includes sealing the collapsible medical device within the delivery device. 
     The details of one or more aspects of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the techniques described in this disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following description of embodiments hereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, further serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the embodiments of the present disclosure. The drawings are not to scale. 
         FIG. 1A  depicts a perspective illustration of a loading system for use with a medical device, according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 1B  depicts a cross-sectional illustration of the loading system of  FIG. 1A , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 2A-2C  depict several illustrations of a locking collar assembly of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  depict illustrations of a loading funnel of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 4A and 4B  depict illustrations of a funnel cap of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  depict illustrations of a device retainer of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 6  depicts an illustration of a nosecone pin of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 7  depicts an illustration of a storage of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 8  depicts a flowchart of a process for the operation of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 9A-9I  depict several illustrations of the operation of the loading system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 10A  depicts a perspective illustration of another loading system for use with a medical device, according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 10B  depicts a cross-sectional illustration of the loading system of  FIG. 10A , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  depict illustrations of a locking collar of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 12A and 12B  depict illustrations of a cap of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  depict illustrations of a loading funnel of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 14A-14C  depict several illustrations of a storage jar of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 15A and 15B  depict illustrations of a fluid port of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIG. 16  depicts a flowchart of a process for the operation of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
         FIGS. 17A-17I  depict several illustrations of the operation of the loading system of  FIGS. 10A and 10B , according to an embodiment hereof. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Specific embodiments of the present disclosure are now described with reference to the figures, wherein like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. 
     The following detailed description describes examples of embodiments and is not intended to limit the present technology or the application and uses of the present technology. Although the description of embodiments hereof is in the context of a storage and loading device for a prosthetic heart valve, the present technology may also be used for other devices. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. 
     Embodiments of disclosed herein are directed to a loading system for storing an implantable medical device and loading the implantable medical device onto a delivery device. In embodiments, the loading system stores the medical device, e.g., a prosthetic heart valve, in a partially compressed or “loaded” state. The loading system stores the medical device in a preserving fluid to enable the medical device to be stored for a period of time without degrading the medical device. When the medical device is ready to be implanted, the loading system is attached to a delivery device. The loading system enables the medical device to be loaded in the delivery device without direct interaction with the medical device. As such, the loading system can provide for storing and loading implantable medical devices at a reduced cost and in a portable fashion. The integrated design of the loading system reduces the steps to clean, sterilize, and load the implantable medical device. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate an example of a loading system  100  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate one example of a loading system and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the loading system  100 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1A , the loading system  100  includes a locking collar assembly  102 , which includes a split collar  104  and a locking collar  106 . The loading system  100  also includes a loading funnel  108  and a funnel cap  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1B , the locking collar assembly  102  also includes a device retainer  112  and a nosecone pin  114 . When coupled to the loading system  100 , the device retainer  112  is positioned within the locking collar  106  of the locking collar assembly  102 . The nosecone pin  114  is coupled to the device retainer  112  and extends through the loading funnel  108 . 
     The device retainer  112  is coupled to an implantable medical device  116 . In embodiments, any type of implantable medical device that requires a conversion from an uncompressed state to a compressed state and that requires loading onto a delivery device can be utilized with the loading system  100 . In an embodiment, the implanted medical device  116  can include components that are intended to repair or support systems of the human body, e.g., prosthetic heart valves including organic tissue coupled to self-expandable or balloon-expandable stents/frames. For example, the loading system  100  can be utilized on implantable medical devices that are to be delivered transluminally, e.g., via a catheter, and need to be loaded onto or into a catheter. The stent/frame may be radially compressed to have a low profile and loaded into/onto a delivery device such that the heart valve prosthesis can be delivered through the vessels to a target location in a compressed state, and then expanded at the target location, by a self-expanding stent/frame or a balloon of the delivery device, for instance, to replace the native heart valve. 
     The loading system  100  is configured to store the implantable medical device  116  in a partially compressed or “loaded” state. That is, the loading funnel  108  is configured to apply a force to the implantable medical device  116  to partially compress the implantable medical device  116  and maintain the implantable medical device  116  in the partially compressed state during storage. In embodiments, as further described below, the loading funnel  108  is formed with a tapered interior chamber that maintains the implantable medical device  116  in a partially compressed state and operates to further compress the implantable medical device  116  when loading the implantable medical device  116  onto a delivery device. 
     The locking collar assembly  102  enables a delivery device, e.g., catheter, to be attached to device retainer  112  with minimal interaction with the implantable medical device  116 . In an embodiment, as further described below, a delivery device (or component of the delivery device) is inserted into the locking collar assembly  102  and attached to the device retainer  112 . To load the implantable medical device  116 , the device retainer  112  is retracted into the delivery device. As the device retainer  112  is retracted, the implantable medical device  116  is further compressed by the loading funnel  108 . 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate an example of the locking collar assembly  102  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate one example of a locking collar assembly and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 2A-2C  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the locking collar assembly  102 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2A , the split collar  104  includes a first collar half  202  and a second collar half  204 . The first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204 , when joined, form a proximal opening  206 , a distal opening  208 , and a loading channel  212 . The loading channel  212  is formed in an approximate cylindrical shape with circular cross-section having an inner diameter, d 1 . The loading channel  212  is formed with the diameter, d 1 , to accommodate the device retainer  112  and allow the insertion of a delivery device, e.g., a catheter, into the split collar  104 . In embodiments, the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  212  may depend on the French (FR) size of the catheter. For example, the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  212  may be formed to accommodate a 18-33 Fr catheter. In an embodiment, the delivery device may be inserted into the proximal opening  206 , and the device retainer  112  may be positioned at or near the distal opening  208 . The split collar  104  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     For example, the loading system  100  may be configured to store and load a 42 millimeter (mm) transcatheter mitral valve replacement device (TMVR), e.g., heart valve and frame. In such as embodiment, the loading channel  212  may be formed with a diameter, d 1 , in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm. In another example, the loading system  100  may be configured to store and load a 48 mm TMVR device. In such an embodiment, the loading channel  212  may be formed with a diameter, d 1 , in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm. One skilled in the art will realize that the loading channel  212  can be formed to any dimension and/or cross-sectional shape to accommodate different medical devices and or delivery devices. 
     The first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  include tabs  214 . The tabs  214  can be configured to provide a connection and/or interface point to the loading funnel  108 . The tabs  214  allow fluid to enter an interior space of the split collar  104  and allow air to exit interior space of the split collar  104 . This may prevent air does from becoming trapped between the implantable medical device  116  and the delivery device. 
     The first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  include connector pins  216  and connector holes  218 . The connector pins  216  are aligned with the connector holes  218  to engage with the connector holes  218  when the first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  are joined to form the split collar  104 . The split collar  104  includes the first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  to allow the spilt collar  104  to be separated and removed once the implantable medical device  116  is loaded into the delivery device. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2B , the split collar  104  also includes a circular ridge  220  positioned adjacent to and/or near the distal opening  208 . The circular ridge  220  extends radially inward from the inner surface of the split collar  104 . In an embodiment, the circular ridge  220  can be formed in an approximate ring and/or torus shape. The circular ridge  220  is formed to a diameter, d 2 , that is smaller than the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  212 . In an embodiment, the circular ridge  220  can be formed to a diameter, d 2 , that is larger than the diameter of the device retainer  112 , but smaller than the outer diameter of the delivery device, for example, an outer shaft of the delivery device, to be inserted into the locking collar  104 . In this embodiment, the circular ridge  220  can function to prevent the implantable medical device  116  from contacting contact with the delivery device during loading, i.e., provides protection for the implantable medical device  116  during loading. 
     The split collar  104  includes male threads  210  are formed on an outer surface of the split collar  104  and are positioned at or near the distal opening  208 . The male threads  210  are configured to engage female threads  256  (illustrated in  FIG. 2C ) of the locking collar  106  and secure the split collar  104  to the locking collar  106 . The female threads  256  are formed on an inner surface of the locking collar  106  and are positioned along an entire length of the inner surface of the locking collar  106 . As described herein, a “female” threads and/or connectors are generally receptacles that receive and hold “male” threads and/or connectors. Once the locking collar  106  is secured to the split collar  104 , the locking collar  106  applies a force to the first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  to hold the first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204  together. 
     While  FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate threads for coupling the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106 , one skilled in the art will realize that other types of connectors can be utilized to mechanically couple the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106 . In some embodiments, the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106  can include a push fit locking collar that acts as an interference fit for coupling the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106 . For example, an outer diameter of the split collar  104  may be larger than an inner diameter of the locking collar  106 . In some embodiments, the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106  can include a c-clip mechanism connector that acts as a mechanical interference between the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106 . In some embodiments, the split collar  104  and the locking collar  106  can include a snap fit connection (e.g., cantilever, torsional and/or annular). For example, the split collar  104  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the locking collar  106  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. Likewise, for example, the locking collar  106  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the split collar  104  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 2C , the locking collar  106  includes a first end  250  and a second end  252 . The locking collar  106  includes external ridges  254 . The external ridges  254  can provide a textured surface to assist in the securing of the locking collar  106  to the split collar  104 . The locking collar  106  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate an example of the loading funnel  108  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate one example of a loading funnel and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the loading funnel  108 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the loading funnel  108  includes a funnel body  302  with a proximal end  304  and a distal end  306 . The funnel body  302  is formed in an approximate conical shape with the proximal end  304  having a smaller diameter than the distal end  306 . The loading funnel  108  includes male threads  308  formed on an outer surface of the loading funnel at the distal end  306  of the funnel body  302 . The male threads  308  are configured to engage with female threads of the funnel cap  110 , described below. The funnel body  302  can be formed on any suitable material such as, but not limited to stainless steel. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the loading funnel  108  includes a proximal opening  310  formed in the proximal end  304  of the funnel body  302  having a diameter, f 1 . The loading funnel  108  also includes a distal opening  312  formed in the distal end  306  of the funnel body  302  having a diameter, f 2 . The interior of the funnel body  302  forms a compression volume  311 . The compression volume  311  is formed in an approximate funnel or cone shape with a decreasing volume from the distal end  306  to the proximal end  304  of the funnel body. In an embodiment, the compression volume  311  is tapered, in a decreasing diameter, from diameter, f 2 , at the distal end  306  to the diameter, f 1 , at the proximal end  304 . The compression volume  311  can be formed of a first funnel section  314 , a second funnel section  316 , a third funnel section  318 , and a fourth funnel section  320 . Each of the first funnel section  314 , the second funnel section  316 , the third funnel section  318 , and the fourth funnel section  320  can be formed in the shape of a funnel, each with a different degree of decreasing volume from the distal end  306  to the proximal end  304 . In embodiments, the volume of the compression volume  311  operates to maintain the implantable medical device  116  in a partially compressed state during storage. 
     In embodiments, the degree of decreasing volume, e.g., taper angle, can affect the angle at which the implant attachment tabs exit the funnel, with a longer taper improving the loading of the implantable medical device  116 . The longer taper may provide a smoother transition for the implantable medical device  116  during loading into the delivery device. A short taper may apply compressive strain on the implantable medical device  116 , may require high force during loading, may result in an uneven crimp, may cause inflooding of the implantable medical device  116 , or may apply an additional compressive load on the implantable medical device  116  when stored. According the degree of decreasing volume, e.g., taper angle, may be set to minimize these and ensure integrity of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In embodiments, the decreasing volume of the compression volume  311  operates to apply a compression force on the implantable medical device  116  as device retainer  112  is retracted through the loading channel  212 . That is, as the device retainer  112  is retracted into the delivery device positioned in the loading channel  212 , the implantable medical device  116  retracts in a loading direction, L, through the proximal opening  310 . As the implantable medical device  116  moves through the compression volume  311 , the inner surfaces of the loading funnel body  302  apply a compression force on surfaces of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In embodiments, the diameter, f 1 , of the proximal opening  310  may depend on the FR size of the catheter. For example, the diameter, f 1 , of the proximal opening  310  may be formed to accommodate a 18-33 Fr catheter. In embodiments, the diameter, f 2 , of the distal opening  312  may depend on an outer diameter of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In some embodiments, the loading system  100  may be configured to store and load a 42 mm TMVR device, and In such an embodiment, the diameter, f 1 , can be in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm, and the diameter, f 2 , can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm. In another example, the loading system  100  may be configured to store and load a 48 mm TMVR device, and the proximal opening  310  may be formed with a diameter, f 1 , and the distal opening  312  may be formed with a diameter, f 2 . In such an embodiment, the diameter, f 1 , can be in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm, and the diameter, f 2 , can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm. One skilled in the art will realize that the compression volume  311  can be formed to any dimension and/or cross-sectional shape to accommodate different medical devices and or delivery devices. 
       FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate an example of the funnel cap  110  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate one example of a funnel cap and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 4A and 4B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the funnel cap  110 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4A , the funnel cap  110  includes a cap body  402  and a nosecone pin housing  404 . The cap body  402  can be formed in an approximate cylindrical shape and includes cap indentations  406 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 4A , the cap body  402  can include four (4) cap indentations  406  positioned at opposing location around the cap body  402 . The cap indentations  406  can provide a location to apply leverage when removing the funnel cap  110  from the loading funnel  108 , as described below in further detail. The cap body  402  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     The cap body  402  can also include female threads  408  formed on an interior surface of the cap body  402 . The female threads  408  can be formed to match and engage with the male threads  308  of the exterior surface of the loading funnel  108  to secure the funnel cap  110  to the loading funnel  108 . The nosecone pin housing  404  can be formed in an approximate cylindrical shape. The nosecone pin housing  404  is configured to hold the nosecone pin  114 . That is, when the nosecone pin  114  is stored within the loading system  100 , the nosecone pin  114  abuts a bottom surface of the nosecone pin housing  404 . The sidewalls of the nosecone pin housing  404  hold the nosecone pin  114  in position and prevent the nosecone pin  114  from moving laterally within the loading system  100 . The nosecone pin housing  404  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the cap body  402  and the nosecone pin housing  404  includes port  410 . The ports  410  can be configured to enable fluid to enter and exit the interior of the funnel cap  110 . The funnel cap  110  operates to prevent the device retainer  112  and the implantable medical device  116  from exiting the distal opening  312  of the loading funnel  108 . That is, the nosecone pin housing  404  (e.g., bottom surface) applies a force on the nosecone pin  114 , which is attached to the device retainer  112 , to prevent the device retainer  112  and the implantable medical device  116  from sliding distally out of the loading funnel  108  due to compression force of the loading funnel  108  when the implantable medical device  116  is in a partially compressed state. 
     While  FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B  illustrate threads for coupling the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110 , one skilled in the art will realize that other types of connectors can be utilized to mechanically couple the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110  can include a push fit locking collar that acts as an interference fit for coupling the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110 . For example, an outer diameter of the loading funnel  108  may be larger than an inner diameter of the funnel cap  110 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110  can include a c-clip mechanism connector that acts as a mechanical interference between the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  108  and the funnel cap  110  can include a snap fit connection (e.g., cantilever, torsional and/or annular). For example, the loading funnel  108  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the funnel cap  110  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. Likewise, for example, the funnel cap  110  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the loading funnel  108  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. 
       FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate an example of the device retainer  112  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate one example of a device retainer and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 5A and 5B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the device retainer  112 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5A , the device retainer  112  includes a first section  502  formed at a proximal end of the device retainer  112  and a third section  506  formed at a distal end  509  of the device retainer  112 . The device retainer  112  also includes a second section  504  formed between the first section  502  and the third section  506 . The first section  502  is configured to be coupled to the delivery device, as described in further detail below. The third section  506  is configured to be coupled to the implantable medical device  116 . The first section  502 , the second section  504 , and the third section  506  are formed in a cylindrical shape. The second section  504  can be formed to an external diameter that is smaller than the first second  502  and the third section  506 . In an embodiment, the second section  504  can operate as a channel to receive a sealing ring (e.g., o-ring). The sealing ring can operate to form hydraulic circuit in the delivery device as part of a pressurized system which closes components of the delivery device (e.g., capsule). 
     The device retainer  112  includes a fourth section  508  formed at the distal end  509  of the device retainer  112 . The fourth section  508  includes locking channels  510 , a distal opening  512 , female threads  514 , and ports  516 . The locking channels  510  are configured to engage with the implantable medical device  116 . In an example, the locking channels  510  may be T-shaped slots that are configured to receive T-shaped tabs on the frame/stent of the implantable medical device  116 . That is, T-shaped tabs on the implantable medical device  116  may be configured to lock into the T-shaped slots of the locking channels  510  to secure the implantable medical device  116  to the device retainer  112 . The ports  516  allow an operator of the delivery device de-gas regions around the implantable medical device  116  before and/or after the implantable medical device  116  is loaded. For example, liquid may be injected into a port in a proximal end at the delivery device and exits thru ports  516 . 
     The female threads  514  are formed on inner surfaces of the third section  506  and the fourth section  508 . The female threads  520  are configured to engage with male threads (e.g., male threads  616  as illustrated in  FIG. 6 ) of the nosecone pin  114  to secure the nosecone pin  114  to the device retainer  112 . The device retainer  112  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5B , the device retainer  112  includes a proximal opening  518 . The device retainer  112  includes female threads  520  from on an inner surface of the first section  502 . The female threads  520  are configured to engage with male threads of the delivery device to secure the device retainer  112  to the delivery device. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an example of the nosecone pin  114  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIG. 6  illustrates one example of a nosecone pin and that existing components illustrated in  FIG. 6  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the nosecone pin  114 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the nosecone pin  114  includes a first section  602  formed at a distal end of the nosecone pin  114 . The first section  602  includes male threads  604  formed adjacent to and/or near the distal end of the nosecone pin  114 . The male threads  604  are configured to engage with female threads of one or more devices that may be associated with the delivery device. For example, the male threads  604  can be configured to engage with female threads of a nosecone or cap that seals the delivery device once the implantable medical device  116  is loaded. The nosecone pin  114  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     The nosecone pin  114  includes a second section  606  that is formed adjacent to the first section  602 . The second section  606  is formed in a cylindrical shape and includes a distal tapered edge  608  and a proximal tapered edge  610 . The second section  606  is formed to a diameter that matches the delivery device, e.g., an outer shaft. The nosecone pin  114  includes a third section  612  formed adjacent to the second section  606  and a fourth section  614  formed adjacent to the third section  612 . The third section  606  and the fourth section  614  are formed in a cylindrical shape. The fourth section  614  includes male threads  616  formed at a distal end of the nosecone pin  114 . The male threads  616  are configured to engage with the female threads  512  of the device retainer  112 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an example of a storage jar  700  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIG. 7  illustrates one example of a storage jar and that existing components illustrated in  FIG. 7  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the storage jar  700 . 
     In embodiments, the implantable medical device  116  can be loaded into the loading system  100 . For example, the implantable medical device  116  can be coupled to the device retainer  112 , and the nosecone pin  114  can be secured to the device retainer  112  by engaging the male threads  616  of the nosecone pin  114  and the female threads  514  of the device retainer  112 . The device retainer  112  including the implantable medical device  116  and the nosecone pin  114  can be inserted into the loading funnel  108  and locking collar assembly  102  (attached to the loading funnel  108 ) to partially compress the implantable medical device  116 . For example, the device retainer  112  can be inserted into the distal opening  306  of the loading funnel  108  and retracted through the loading funnel  108  into the loading channel  212  of the split collar  104 . The funnel cap  110  can then be coupled to the loading funnel  108  by engaging the female threads  408  of the funnel cap  110  with the male threads  308  of the loading funnel  108 . 
     Once the implantable medical device  116  is loaded into the loading system  100 , the loading system  100  may be stored for a period of time until the implantable medical device  116  is utilized in a procedure. As such, the loading system  100  can be placed in the storage jar  700 . The storage jar  700  can be filled with a preserving fluid  702 . The preserving fluid  702  can be any type of fluid that maintains the integrity and quality of the loading system  100 . For example, if the implantable medical device  116  include organic material, the preserving fluid  702  may include formaldehyde to maintain the integrity of the organic material. 
       FIG. 8  and  FIGS. 9A-9I  illustrate an example of a process  800  for the operation of the loading system  100  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B  to load the implantable medical device into a delivery device. While FIG. Band  FIGS. 9A-9I  illustrate various operations that can be performed in the process  800 , one skilled in the art will realize that existing operations can be removed and additional operations can be added. Likewise, one skilled in the art will realize that the order of the operations can be changed in some instances. 
     In step  802 , the process  800  includes removing a loading system from a storage jar. For example, the loading system  100  may be stored in the storage jar  700 . The storage jar  700  can be unsealed and the loading system  100  removed, for example as illustrated in  FIG. 9A . 
     In step  804 , the process  800  includes rinsing the loading system in a sterile bath. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 9B , the loading system  100  with the implantable medical device  116  loaded therein can be placed in a sterile bath  902 . The sterile bath  902  can include any suitable fluid, e.g., saline, to sterilize the loading system  100  and remove unwanted materials from the loading system  100 . For example, the sterile bath  902  can be utilized to remove any preserving fluid  702  from the storage jar  700 . When the loading system  100  is placed in the sterile bath  902  and agitated, the fluid of the sterile bath  902  wash the exterior of the loading system  100 . Likewise, the fluid of the sterile bath  902  can enter the interior of the loading system  100 , for example, through the ports  410 , to wash the interior of the loading system  100  and the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In step  806 , the process  800  includes attaching a delivery device to a device retainer of the loading system. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 9C , a delivery device  904  can be attached to the device retainer  112 . The delivery device  904  can include an outer shaft and an inner shaft that is disposed within a lumen of the outer shaft. The inner shaft can include male threads located at a distal end thereof that engage with the female threads  514  of the device retainer  112 . The outer shaft can be inserted into the split collar  104  of the locking collar assembly  102 . The inner shaft can be extended from the outer shaft and can be attached the device retainer  112 , e.g., screwed into. 
     In step  808 , the process  800  includes loading a valve into a capsule of the delivery device. In embodiments, the capsule can be the distal portion of the outer shaft of the delivery device  904 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 9D and 9E , the inner shaft can be retracted into the outer shaft. As the inner shaft is retracted, the device retainer  112  is also retracted into the outer shaft. Simultaneously, the implantable medical device  116  attached to the device retainer  112  is retracted in the loading direction, L, through the loading funnel  108 . As the implantable medical device  116  moves through the compression volume  311 , the inner surfaces of the loading funnel body  302  apply a compression force on surfaces of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In step  810 , the process  800  includes removing a loading funnel of the loading system. As illustrated in  FIG. 9F , the loading funnel  108  can be removed from the locking collar assembly  102 . For example, the loading funnel  108  can be disengaged from the locking collar assembly  102 . The partially compressed implantable medical device  116  exerts an outwards spring force on the loading funnel  108 , which pulls the loading funnel  108  up against the locking collar assembly  102 . This force may increase during loading until the locking collar assembly  102  exits the loading funnel  108  thereby releasing the loading funnel  108  from locking collar assembly  102 . 
     In step  812 , the process  800  includes removing a locking collar assembly of the loading system. As illustrated in  FIG. 9G , the locking collar assembly  102  can be removed from the delivery device  904  in a single action. For example, the locking collar assembly  102  can be slid off the outer shaft of the delivery device  904 . Likewise, in another example, the locking collar  106  can be removed from the split collar  104 , and then the split collar  104  can be removed. For example, the split collar  104  can be disengaged, e.g., unscrewed, from the locking collar  106 , and the split collar  104  can be separated into the first collar half  202  and the second collar half  204 . 
     In step  814 , the process  800  includes attaching a nosecone to a nosecone pin. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 9H , a nosecone  906  can be attached to the nosecone pin  114 , for example, by engaging the male threads  604  with female threads of the nosecone  906 . 
     In step  816 , the process  800  includes sealing the capsule. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 9I , the inner shaft can be further retracted into the outer shaft until the nosecone  906  engages and creates a seal with the outer shaft. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate another example of a loading system  1000  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate one example of a loading system and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 10A and 10B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the loading system  1000 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 10A , the loading system  1000  includes a locking collar assembly  1002 . The locking collar assembly  1002  includes a cap  1004  and a locking collar  1006 . The loading system  1000  also includes a loading funnel  1008  and an integrated storage jar  1010 . As illustrated in  FIG. 10B , the loading system  1000  includes a device retainer  1012  and a nosecone pin  1014 . The device retainer  1012  secures an implantable medical device  1016 . When coupled to the loading system  1000 , the device retainer  112  is positioned within the locking collar  1006  of the locking collar assembly  1002 . The nosecone pin  1014  is coupled to the device retainer  1012  and extends through the loading funnel  1008 . The loading system  1000  also includes a fluid port  1018 . 
     The device retainer  1012  is coupled to the implantable medical device  1016 . As described above, any type of implantable medical device that requires a conversion from an uncompressed state to a compressed state and that requires loading onto a delivery device can be utilized with the loading system  1000 . In an embodiment, the implanted medical device  1016  can include components that are intended to repair or support systems of the human body, e.g., prosthetic heart valves including organic tissue coupled to self-expandable or balloon-expandable stents/frames. For example, the loading system  1000  can be utilized on implantable medical devices that are to be delivered transluminally, e.g., via a catheter, and need to be loaded onto or into a catheter. The stent/frame may be radially compressed to have a low profile and loaded into/onto a delivery device such that the heart valve prosthesis can be delivered through the vessels to a target location in a compressed state, and then expanded at the target location, by a self-expanding stent/frame or a balloon of the delivery device, for instance, to replace the native heart valve. 
     The loading system  1000  is configured to store the implantable medical device  1016  in a partially compressed or “loaded” state. That is, the loading funnel  1008  is configured to apply a force to the implantable medical device  1016  to partially compress the implantable medical device  1016  and maintain the implantable medical device  116  in the partially compressed state during storage. In embodiments, as further described below, the loading funnel  1008  is formed with a tapered interior chamber that maintains the implantable medical device  1016  in a partially compressed state and operates to further compress the implantable medical device  1016  when loading the implantable medical device  1016  onto a delivery device. 
     The locking collar assembly  1002  allows a delivery device, e.g., catheter, to be attached to device retainer  1012  within minimal interaction with the implantable medical device  1016 . In embodiment, as further described below, a delivery device (or component of the delivery device) is inserted into the locking collar assembly  1002  and coupled to the device retainer  1012 . To load the implantable medical device  1016 , the device retainer  1012  is retracted into the delivery device. As the device retainer  1012  is retracted, the implantable medical device  116  is further compressed by the loading funnel  1008 . 
     While not described in further details, the device retainer  1012 , the nosecone pin  1014 , and the implantable medical device  1016  can include the same components of device retainer  112 , the nosecone pin  114 , and implantable medical device  116 , respectively, as described above. 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate an example of a locking collar  1006  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate one example of a locking collar and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 11A and 11B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the locking collar  1006 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11A , the locking collar  1006  includes a locking collar neck  1102  and a locking collar base  1104 . The locking collar  1006  includes a proximal opening  1106  located in the locking collar neck  1102  and a distal opening  1108  located in the locking collar base  1104 . The locking collar neck  1102  includes circular channels  1110 . The circular channel  1110  can be configured to receive sealing members, e.g., O-rings, that provide a fluid seal between the locking collar neck  1102  and the cap  1004 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11B , the locking collar neck  1102  includes a loading channel  1112 . The loading channel  1112  extends from the proximal opening  1106  to the top of the locking collar base  1104 . The loading channel  1112  is formed in an approximate cylindrical shape with circular cross-section having an inner diameter, d 1 . The loading channel  1112  is formed with the diameter, d 1 , to accommodate the device retainer  1012  and allow the insertion of a delivery device, e.g., catheter, into the locking collar neck  1102 . In embodiments, the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  212  may depend on the FR size of the catheter. For example, the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  212  may be formed to accommodate a 18-33 Fr catheter. In an embodiment, the delivery device may be inserted into the proximal opening  1106 , and the device retainer  1012  may be positioned at or near the bottom of the locking collar neck  1102 . The locking collar  1006  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     For example, the loading system  1000  may be configured to store and load a 42 millimeter (mm) TMVR device, e.g., heart valve and frame. In such as embodiment, the loading channel  1112  may be formed with a diameter, d 1 , in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm. In another example, the loading system  1000  may be configured to store and load a 48 mm TMVR device. In such an embodiment, the loading channel  1112  may be formed with a diameter, d 1 , in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm. One skilled in the art will realize that the loading channel  1112  can be formed to any dimension and/or cross-sectional shape to accommodate different medical devices and or delivery devices. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 11B , the locking collar neck  1102  also include a circular ridge  1113  positioned at a distal end of the loading channel  1112 . The circular ridge  1113  extends radially inward from the inner surface of the locking collar neck  1002 . In an embodiment, the circular ridge  1113  can be formed in an approximate ring and/or torus shape. The circular ridge  1113  is formed to a diameter, d 2 , that is smaller than the diameter, d 1 , of the loading channel  1112 . In an embodiment, the circular ridge  1113  can be formed to a diameter, d 2 , that is larger than the diameter of the device retainer  1012 , but smaller than the outer diameter of the delivery device, e.g., an outer shaft of the delivery device, to be inserted into the locking collar neck  1102 . In this embodiment, the circular ridge  1113  can function as a stop that prevents the delivery device from being inserted past the circular ridge  1113 . 
     The locking collar base  1104  includes female threads  1114 . The female threads  1114  are formed at a bottom portion of the locking collar base  1104  adjacent to the distal opening  1108 . The female threads  1114  are configured to engage with threads of the loading funnel  1008  (described below in  FIG. 13A and 13B ) to secure the loading funnel  1008  to the locking collar  1006 . The locking collar base  1104  also include a cavity  1115 . The cavity  1115  is formed of a first section  1116  that is positioned adjacent to or near the distal opening  1108  and a second section  1118  that is positioned adjacent to or near the distal end of the loading channel  1112 . The first section  1116  and the second section  1118  are formed to a shape and dimension that matches the shape and dimensions of the loading funnel  1008 , further described below. 
       FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate an example of the cap  1004  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate one example of a cap and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 12A and 12B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the cap  1004 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 12A , the cap  1004  includes a cap neck  1202  and a cap base  1204 . The cap neck  1202  is formed in an approximate rectangular polygon shape. As illustrated in  FIG. 12B , the cap base  1204  include a cap opening  1206  that opens to a cap channel  1208 . The cap channel  1208  in an approximate cylindrical shape with circular cross-section having a diameter, c, that is approximately equal or larger than an outer diameter of the cap neck  1202 . For example, the cap channel  1208  may have the diameter, c, of approximately 15 mm and may have overall height of approximately 40 mm. As illustrated in  FIGS. 10A and 10B  above, the cap  1004  slides over the cap neck  1202  to provide a fluid seal to the loading channel  1112 , e.g., via sealing members disposed in the circular channels  1110 . The cap  1004  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate an example of the loading funnel  1008  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate one example of a loading funnel and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 13A and 13B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the loading funnel  1008 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13A , the loading funnel  1008  includes a first section  1302 , a second section  1304 , a third section  1306 , a fourth section  1308 , and a fifth section  1310 . The loading funnel  1008  includes a proximal opening  1312  and a distal opening  1314 . The loading funnel  1008  includes a ring  1316  that is formed at a proximal end of the second section  1304  and adjacent to and/or near the third section  1306 . The ring  1316  is formed in a cylindrical shape that extends radially outward from the outer surface of the second section  1304 . The loading funnel  1008  includes male threads  1318 . The male threads  1318  are formed on the first section  1302  adjacent to and/or near the distal opening  1314 . The male threads  1318  are configured to engage with threads of the integrated storage jar  1010  (described below in  FIGS. 14A-14C ) to secure the integrated storage jar  1010  to the loading funnel  1008 . The ring  1316  can operate as a stop or seal when the integrated storage jar  1010  is attached to the loading funnel  1008 . For example, the ring  1316  may contain one or large o-ring seals that may prevent the liquid from leaking out loading system  1000 . 
     The loading funnel  1008  includes male threads  1320 . The male threads  1320  are formed on the fourth section  1308  adjacent to and/or near the proximal opening  1312 . The male threads  1320  are configured to engage with the female threads  1114  of the locking collar  1006  to secure the loading funnel  1008  to the locking collar  1006 . The loading funnel  1008  can be formed on any suitable material such as, but not limited to stainless steel. 
     The loading funnel  1008  is formed in an approximate conical shape with the fifth section  1310  having a smaller diameter than the fourth section  1308  and the fourth section having a smaller diameter than the first section  1302 , the second section  1304 , and the third section  1306 . As illustrated in  FIG. 13B , the loading funnel  1008  forms a compression volume  1321  in the interior of the loading funnel  1008 . The compression volume  1321  opens at the proximal opening  1312  and the distal opening  1314 . The compression volume  1321  is formed of a first chamber  1322 , a second chamber  1324 , and a third chamber  1326 . The proximal opening  1312  is formed in the fifth section  1310  having a diameter, f 1 . The distal opening  1314  is formed in the first section  1302  having a diameter, f 2 . The interior of the loading funnel  1008  forms the compression volume  1321 . The compression volume  1321  is formed in an approximate funnel or cone shape with a decreasing volume from the first section  1302  to the fifth section  1310 . In an embodiment, the compression volume  1321  is tapered, in a decreasing diameter, from diameter, f 2 , at the distal opening  1314  to the diameter, f 1 , at the proximal opening  1312 . Each of the first chamber  1322 , the second chamber  1324 , and the third chamber  1326  can be formed in the shape of a funnel, each with a different degree of decreasing volume from the distal opening  1314  to the proximal opening  1312 . In embodiments, the volume of the compression volume  1321  operates to maintain the implantable medical device  1016  in a partially compressed state. 
     In embodiments, the degree of decreasing volume, e.g., taper angle, can affect the angle at which the implant attachment tabs exit the funnel, with a longer taper improving the loading of the implantable medical device  116 . The longer taper may provide a smoother transition for the implantable medical device  116  during loading into the delivery device. A short taper may apply compressive strain on the implantable medical device  116 , may require high force during loading, may result in an uneven crimp, may cause inflooding of the implantable medical device  116 , or may apply an additional compressive load on the implantable medical device  116  when stored. According the degree of decreasing volume, e.g., taper angle, may be set to minimize these and ensure integrity of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In embodiments, the decreasing volume of the compression volume  1321  also operates to apply a compression force on the implantable medical device  1016  as device retainer  1012  is retracted through the loading channel  1112 . That is, as the device retainer  1012  is retracted into the delivery device positioned in the loading channel  1112 , the implantable medical device  1016  retracts in a loading direction, L, through the proximal opening  1312 . As the implantable medical device  1016  moves through the compression volume  1321 , the inner surfaces of the loading funnel  1008  apply a compression force on surfaces of the implantable medical device  1016 . 
     In embodiments, the diameter, f 1 , of the proximal opening  1312  may depend on the FR size of the catheter. For example, the diameter, f 1 , of the proximal opening  1312  may be formed to accommodate a 18-33 Fr catheter. In embodiments, the diameter, f 2 , of the distal opening  1314  may depend on an outer diameter of the implantable medical device  116 . 
     In some embodiments, the loading system  100  may be configured to store and load a 42 mm TMVR device, and In such an embodiment, the diameter, f 1 , can be in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm, and the diameter, f 2 , can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm. 
     For example, the loading system  1000  may be configured to store and load a 42 mm TMVR device, and the proximal opening  1312  may be formed with a diameter, f 1 , and the distal opening  1314  may be formed with a diameter, f 2 . In such an embodiment, the diameter, f 1 , can be in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm, and the diameter, f 2 , can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm. In another example, the loading system  1000  may be configured to store and load a 48 mm TMVR device, and the proximal opening  1312  may be formed with a diameter, f 1 , and the distal opening  1314  may be formed with a diameter, f 2 . In such an embodiment, the diameter, f 1 , can be in a range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 13 mm, and the diameter, f 2 , can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm. One skilled in the art will realize that the compression volume  1321  can be formed to any dimension and/or cross-sectional shape to accommodate different medical devices and or delivery devices. 
     While  FIGS. 11A, 11B, 13A, and 13B  illustrate threads for coupling the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008 , one skilled in the art will realize that other types of connectors can be utilized to mechanically couple the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008 . In some embodiments, the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008  can include a push fit locking collar that acts as an interference fit for coupling the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008 . For example, an outer diameter of the locking collar  1006  may be larger than an inner diameter of the loading funnel  1008 . In some embodiments, the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008  can include a c-clip mechanism connector that acts as a mechanical interference between the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008 . In some embodiments, the locking collar  1006  and the loading funnel  1008  can include a snap fit connection (e.g., cantilever, torsional and/or annular). For example, the locking collar  1006  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the loading funnel  1008  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. Likewise, for example, the loading funnel  1008  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the locking collar  1006  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. 
       FIGS. 14A-14C  illustrate an example of the integrated storage jar  1010  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 14A-14C  illustrate one example of an integrated storage jar and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 14A-14C  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the integrated storage jar  1010 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 14A , the integrated storage jar  1010  includes a jar body  1402 . The jar body  1402  is formed with an approximate cylindrical shape. The jar body  1402  includes a proximal opening  1404  and a distal opening  1406 . The integrated storage jar  1010  includes female threads  1408 . The female threads  1408  are formed at the proximal end of the jar body  1402  adjacent to or near the proximal opening  1404 . The female threads  1408  are configured to engage with the male threads  1318  of the loading funnel  1008  to secure the integrated storage jar  1010  to the loading funnel  1008 . The integrated storage jar  1010  can be formed of any suitable material such as, but not limited to a polymeric material. 
     The integrated storage jar  1010  includes a jar base  1410 . The jar base  1410  includes an opening  1412 . The opening  1412  is configured to receive the fluid port  1018 . When the fluid port  1018  is inserted into the opening  1412 , the jar base  1410  forms a fluid chamber  1413 . The fluid chamber  1413  is configured to hold and maintain fluids within the loading system  1000 , for example, preservation fluids and/or sterile fluids. 
     The integrated storage jar  1010  includes a nosecone pin holder  1414 . The nosecone pin holder  1414  is configured to receive the nosecone pin  1014  and secure the nosecone pin  1014  in place when the integrate storage jar  1010  is attached to the loading funnel  1008 . The nosecone pin holder  1414  is formed in an approximate cylindrical shape. The nosecone pin holder  1414  is configured to hold the nosecone pin  1014  in place and prevent movement of the nosecone pin  1014 . That is, when the nosecone pin  114  is stored within the loading system  1000 , the nosecone pin  114  abuts a bottom surface of the nosecone pin holder  1414 . The sidewalls of the nosecone pin holder  1414  hold the nosecone pin  114  in position and prevent the nosecone pin  114  from moving laterally within the loading system  1000 . 
     In embodiments, the nosecone pin holder  1414  operates to prevent the device retainer  1012  and the implantable medical device  1016  from exiting the distal opening  1314  of the loading funnel  1008 . That is, the nosecone pin holder  1414  (e.g., bottom surface) applies a force on the nosecone pin  1014 , which is attached to the device retainer  1012 , to prevent the device retainer  1012  and the implantable medical device  1016  from sliding out of the loading funnel  1008  due to compression force of the loading funnel  1008  when the implantable medical device  1016  is in a partially compressed state. 
     While  FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 14A-14C  illustrate threads for coupling the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010 , one skilled in the art will realize that other types of connectors can be utilized to mechanically couple the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010  can include a push fit locking collar that acts as an interference fit for coupling the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010 . For example, an outer diameter of the loading funnel  1008  may be larger than an inner diameter of the integrated storage jar  1010 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010  can include a c-clip mechanism connector that acts as a mechanical interference between the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010 . In some embodiments, the loading funnel  1008  and the integrated storage jar  1010  can include a snap fit connection (e.g., cantilever, torsional and/or annular). For example, the loading funnel  1008  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the integrated storage jar  1010  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. Likewise, for example, the integrated storage jar  1010  can include a protruding edge or tab, and the loading funnel  1008  can include a snap-in area (e.g., groove, channel, etc.) for receiving and locking the protruding edge or tab. 
       FIGS. 15A and 15B  illustrate an example of the fluid port  1018  in accordance with an embodiment hereof. One skilled in the art will realize that  FIGS. 15A and 15B  illustrate one example of a fluid port and that existing components illustrated in  FIGS. 15A and 15B  may be removed and/or additional components may be added to the fluid port  1018 . 
     In embodiments, the fluid port  1018  can operate as a Luer connector to allow for syringe attachment. As illustrated in  FIG. 15A , the fluid port  1018  includes a port base  1502  and a port neck  1504 . The port base  1502  is formed in an approximate cylindrical shape and includes a proximal opening  1506  formed at a proximal end of the fluid port  1018 . The port neck includes a distal opening  1508  formed at a distal end of the port neck. The port base  1502  includes a first base section  1510  that is formed adjacent to the proximal end of the fluid port  1018  and a second base section  1512  that is formed adjacent to the first base section  1510  and the distal end of the port base  1502 . The port base  1502  also includes ridges  1514 . The ridges  1514  operate to secure the fluid port  1018  into the opening  1412  of the integrated storage jar  1010 . For example, the ridges  1514  can secure the fluid port  1018  into the opening  1412  via a friction force. In other embodiments, the fluid port  1018  can be secured to the opening  1412  using other types of connections such as adhesive, weld bond, or threaded/screw connection. 
     The port neck  1504  includes a first neck section  1516  that is formed adjacent to the port base  1502 , a second neck section  1518  that is formed adjacent to the first neck section  1516 , and a third neck section  1520  that is formed adjacent to the second neck section  1518  and the distal end of the fluid port  1018 . Each of the first neck section  1516 , second neck section  1518 , and third neck section  1520  are formed in an approximate cylindrical shape. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 15B , the fluid port  1018  includes a fluid channel  1522 . The fluid channel  1522  extends from the proximal opening  1506  to the distal opening  1508 . The fluid channel  1522  allows fluid to be injected for extracted from the loading system  1000 . For example, a fluid delivery device, e.g., syringe, can be attached to the fluid port  1018  to extract and inject fluids. 
     In embodiments, the implantable medical device  1016  can be loaded into the loading system  1000 . For example, the implantable medical device  1016  can be coupled to the device retainer  1012 , and the nosecone pin  1014  can be secured to the device retainer  1012  by engaging the male threads of the nosecone pin  1014  and the female threads of the device retainer  1012 . The device retainer  1012  including the implantable medical device  1016  and the nosecone pin  1014  can be inserted into the loading funnel  1008  and locking collar assembly  1002  (attached to the loading funnel  1008 ) to partially compress the implantable medical device  1016 . For example, the device retainer  1012  can be inserted into the distal opening  1314  of the loading funnel  1008  and retracted through the loading funnel  1008  into the loading channel  1112  of the locking collar  1006 . The integrate storage jar  1010  can then be coupled to the loading funnel  1008  by engaging the female threads  1408  of the integrate storage jar  1010  with the male threads  1318  of the loading funnel  1008 . 
     In embodiments, once the implantable medical device  1016  is loaded into the loading system  1000 , the loading system  1000  may be stored for a period of time until the implantable medical device  1016  is utilized in a procedure. The loading system  100  can be filed with a preserving fluid via the fluid port  1018  in the integrated storage jar  1010 . The preserving fluid can be any type of fluid that maintains the integrity and quality of the loading system  1000 . For example, if the implantable medical device  1016  include organic material, the preserving fluid may include formaldehyde to maintain the integrity of the organic material. 
       FIG. 16  and  FIGS. 17A-17I  illustrate an example of a process  1600  for the operation of the loading system  1600  of  FIGS. 10A and 10B  for loading an implantable medical device into a delivery system. While  FIG. 16  and  FIGS. 17A-17I  illustrate various operations that can be performed in the process  1600 , one skilled in the art will realize that existing operations can be removed and additional operations can be added. Likewise, one skilled in the art will realize that the order of the operations can be changed. 
     In  1602 , the process  1600  includes removing a cap from a loading system. For example, as illustrated in  FIGS. 17A and 17B , the cap  1004  can be removed from the loading system  1000 . For example, a force can be applied to the cap  1004  to extract the cap  1004  from the locking collar neck  1102 . 
     In  1604 , the process  1600  includes attaching a fluid source to a fluid port of the loading system. In  1606 , the process  1600  includes flushing the loading system with a sterile solution. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 17C , a syringe  1702  can be attached to the fluid port  1018  of the loading system  1000 . The syringe  1702  can then be operated to introduce a sterile solution, e.g., saline, into the loading system  1000  via the fluid channel  1522 . The saline can replace the preserving fluid contained with the loading system and wash the interior of the loading system  1000 . 
     In  1608 , the process  1600  includes attaching a delivery device to a device retainer of the loading system. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 17D , a delivery device  1704  can be attached to the device retainer  1012 . The delivery device  1704  can include an outer shaft and an inner shaft that retracts into a lumen of the inner shaft. The inner shaft can include male threads that engage with the female threads of the device retainer  1012 . The outer shaft can be inserted into the locking collar neck  1102 . The inner shaft can be extended from the outer shaft and can be attached the device retainer  1012 , e.g., screwed into. 
     In  1610 , the process  1600  includes loading the valve into a capsule of the delivery device. In embodiments, the capsule can be the distal portion of the outer shaft of the delivery device  1704 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 17E and 17G , the inner shaft can be retracted into the outer shaft. As the inner shaft is retracted, the device retainer  1012  is also retracted into the outer shaft. Simultaneously, the implantable medical device  1016  is retracted in the loading direction, L, through the loading funnel  1008 . As the implantable medical device  1016  moves through the compression volume  1321 , the inner surfaces of the loading funnel  1008  apply a compression force on surfaces of the implantable medical device  1016 . As the inner shaft is retracted, additional sterile solution may be injected into the loading system  1000  with the syringe  1702 . 
     In  1612 , the process  1600  includes removing the locking collar, the loading funnel, and the storage jar. As illustrated in  FIG. 17  locking collar neck  1102 , e.g., sliding the outer shaft from the locking collar neck  1102 . 
     In  1614 , the process  1600  includes attaching a nosecone to a nosecone pin. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 17H , a nosecone  1706  can be attached to the nosecone pin, for example, by engaging the male threads with female threads of the nosecone  1706 . 
     In  1616 , the process  1600  includes sealing the capsule of the delivery device. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 17I , the inner shaft can be further retracted into the outer shaft until the nosecone  1706  engages and creates a seal with the outer shaft. 
     Additional discussion of various embodiments is presented below: 
     Embodiment 1 is a device for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices. The device includes a locking collar assembly including a proximal end, a distal end, and a loading channel formed between the proximal end and the distal end. The device also includes a loading funnel coupled to the distal end of the locking collar assembly at a proximal end of the loading funnel. The loading funnel is configured to store a collapsible medical device within a tapered interior volume of the loading funnel in a partially collapsed state. The tapered interior volume decreases in volume from a distal end of the loading funnel to the proximal end of the loading funnel. The device includes a retainer positioned with the loading channel at the distal end of the locking collar assembly and includes a connector configured to couple to a delivery device. The collapsible medical appliance is coupled to the retainer. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading funnel prior to connection to the delivery device. The device further includes a nosecone pin coupled to the retainer and positioned within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. Additionally, the device includes a storage jar coupled to a distal end of the loading funnel. The storage jar is configured retain the collapsible medical device and the nosecone pin within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 2 includes the device of embodiment 1, and further includes a cap removably coupled to locking collar assembly, wherein the cap and the storage jar maintain fluids within an interior volume of the of the storage jar, the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel, and the loading channel of the locking collar assembly. 
     Embodiment 3 includes the device embodiment 2, wherein the locking collar assembly includes: a locking collar neck configured to receive the cap; and a locking collar body comprising female threads formed on an interior surface of the locking collar body. 
     Embodiment 4 includes the device of embodiment 3, wherein the loading funnel includes: male threads formed at the proximal end of the loading funnel, wherein the male threads are configured to engage the female threads of the locking collar body, and male threads formed at the distal end of the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 5 includes the device of embodiment 4, wherein the storage jar includes: female threads formed at a proximal end of the storage jar, wherein the female threads are configured to engage the male threads formed at the distal end of the loading funnel to secure the storage jar to the loading funnel; and one or more fluid ports configured to selectively allow fluid to flow into and out of an interior volume of the storage jar and the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 6 includes the device of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the tapered interior volume comprises an approximate conical shape. 
     Embodiment 7 includes the device of any of embodiments 1-6, wherein the connector of the retainer comprises female threads configured to engage male threads of the delivery device. 
     Embodiment 8 includes the device of any of embodiments 1-7, wherein the collapsible medical device is an expanding frame containing a heart valve. 
     Embodiment 9 is a device for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices. The device includes a locking collar assembly including a proximal end, a distal end, and a loading channel formed between the proximal end and the distal end. The device also includes a loading funnel coupled to the distal end of the locking collar assembly at a proximal end of the loading funnel. The loading funnel is configured to store a collapsible medical device in a partially collapsed state within a tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. The tapered interior volume decreases in volume from a distal end of the loading funnel to the proximal end of the loading funnel. Further, the device includes a retainer positioned with the loading channel at the distal end of the locking collar assembly and includes a connector configured to couple to a delivery device. The collapsible medical device is coupled to the retainer. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading funnel prior to connection to the delivery device. The device includes a nosecone pin coupled to the retainer and positioned within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. Additionally, the device includes a funnel cap coupled to the distal end of the loading funnel. The funnel cap is configured retain the collapsible medical device and the nosecone pin within the tapered interior volume of the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 10 includes the device of embodiment 9, wherein the locking collar assembly includes: a split locking collar comprising a first collar half and a second collar half; and a locking collar removably coupled to distal portions of the first collar half and the second collar half, wherein the locking collar secures the first collar half and the second collar half to the loading funnel to define the loading channel. 
     Embodiment 11 includes the device of any of embodiments 9-10, wherein the tapered interior volume comprises an approximate conical shape. 
     Embodiment 12 includes the device of any of embodiments 9-11, wherein the loading funnel includes male threads formed at the distal end of the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 13 includes the device of embodiment 12, wherein the funnel cap includes: female threads formed at a proximal end of the funnel cap, wherein the female threads are configured to engage the male threads of the loading funnel to secure the funnel cap to the loading funnel; and one or more fluid ports configured to allow fluid to flow into and out of an interior volume of the loading cap and the loading funnel. 
     Embodiment 14 includes the device of any of embodiments 9-13, wherein the connector of the retainer comprises female threads configured to engage male threads of the delivery device. 
     Embodiment 15 includes the device of any of embodiments 9-14, wherein the collapsible medical device is an expanding frame containing a heart valve. 
     Embodiment 16 includes the device of any of embodiments 9-15, wherein the device is configured to be maintained with a storage jar containing a preserving fluid. 
     Embodiment 17 is a method for storing medical devices and loading the medical devices onto delivery devices, The method includes washing, with a sterile solution, a collapsible medical device that is stored within a tapered interior volume of a loading device in a partially collapsed state. The method also includes coupling a delivery device to a retainer positioned within the loading device. The retainer maintains the collapsible medical device within the loading device in the partially collapsed state prior to connection to the delivery device. Additionally, the method includes retracting the retainer through a loading channel of the loading device, where retracting retainer causes the collapsible medical device to move through the tapered interior volume to compress the collapsible medical device. The method includes removing the loading device from the delivery device. The method also includes sealing the collapsible medical device within the delivery device. 
     Embodiment 18 includes the method of embodiment 17, wherein washing the collapsible medical device includes: connecting a fluid delivery device to a fluid port of the loading device; and engaging the fluid delivery device to flow the sterile fluid into the loading system. 
     Embodiment 19 includes the method of any of embodiments 17-18, wherein washing the collapsible medical device includes submerging the loading system within bath comprising the sterile fluid, wherein the loading system comprises one or more fluid ports configured to allow the sterile fluid to flow into and out of the loading device. 
     Embodiment 20 includes the method of any of embodiments 17-19, wherein sealing the collapsible medical device within the delivery device comprises attaching a nosecone to a nosecone pin coupled to the retainer. 
     It should be understood that various embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in different combinations than the combinations specifically presented in the description and accompanying drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the example, certain acts or events of any of the processes or methods described herein may be performed in a different sequence, may be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g., all described acts or events may not be necessary to carry out the techniques). In addition, while certain aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by a single device or component for purposes of clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of this disclosure may be performed by a combination of devices or components associated with, for example, a medical device.