Described herein is an apparatus to insert an implantable therapeutic device into a patient. The apparatus includes a proximal handle (210) and a distal placement portion (220) coupled to the proximal handle and configured to hold the implantable therapeutic device. The distal placement portion includes a first side (222) having a first engagement structure (251) at a distal end of the first side, the first engagement structure configured to surround at least a first portion of a proximal end region of the implantable therapeutic device. The distal placement portion includes a second, opposite side (224) having a second engagement structure (253) at a distal end of the second side, the second engagement structure configured to surround at least a second, opposite portion of the proximal end region of the implantable therapeutic device.