Retrieval of the protection filter with a soft coaxial catheter after carotid stenting.

The purpose of this study was to shorten and simplify the procedure of filter retrieval after carotid stenting with cerebral protecting devices. We propose a retrieval method with a soft-tip guiding catheter, which eliminates the step of balloon exchange and introduction of a retriever catheter for the protection filter. The technique was successfully used in our last 60 consecutive patients. One transient deficit occurred. In conclusion, retrieval of the filter with a soft coaxial catheter after carotid stenting is a feasible and safe method and may simplify cerebrovascular protection during stenting.