A stent loading apparatus for loading a self-expanding radioactive stent into a bore of a deployment device in a compressed condition including a storage device defining an elongated first passage formed and dimensioned for sliding receipt of the stent therein. The first passage extends through the storage device and terminates at a stent transfer opening of a proximal coupling end thereof. A radiation shield defines an elongated second passage which terminates at a distal opening of a distal coupling end thereof. The distal coupling end of the radiation shield and the proximal coupling end of the storage device cooperate to align the distal opening of the shield in receiving communication with the stent transfer opening of the storage device. The second passage of the shield is formed and dimensioned for receipt of the deployment device therein in a manner positioning a mouth of the deployment device bore substantially adjacent the stent transfer opening of the storage device. Upon urging of the stent in a direction toward the shield, the radioactive stent may be slideably transferred from the first passage and into the mouth of the bore for retainment therein in the compressed condition.