A "Buddy Wire" technique for successful OptEase filter retrieval.

The present report describes a transfemoral, single-access OptEase filter retrieval technique that takes advantage of its particular two-level mirrored umbrella design. By threading a stiff "buddy" guide wire through the device, the filter is aligned to the long vena cava axis. This technique separates the retrieval hooklet from the adjacent venous wall, thereby facilitating its snaring. This simple technique has been successful in 10 patients after a failed standard retrieval attempt. In this series of 118 consecutively placed OptEase filters, the overall filter retrieval rate increased from 72% to 80% with this maneuver, and the rate of successful intended retrieval increased from 83% to 93%.