A method and device are disclosed for retrieving embolic coils used for treating an aneurysm of a patient. The method comprises the steps of providing a wire device that is pushable through a microcatheter and has a flexible distal portion comprising distal collapsible arms with a latch member carried by one of the arms. The microcatheter is introduced into a patient's vessel leading to the aneurysm. The wire device, distal end first, is introduced into the microcatheter whereby the arms collapse while they are within the microcatheter. The distal end of the wire device is pushed through the microcatheter whereby the arms open when they extend out of the distal end of the microcatheter. The latch member is manipulated so that it engages an embolic coil to be retrieved. The latch-engaged embolic coil and wire device are withdrawn through the catheter, whereby the arms become collapsed as the arm is withdrawn through the catheter, securing the latch and the embolic coil.