Provided is a device for extracting from a body tissue surgical fasteners having a crown, a baseplate and prongs extending from the crown to the baseplate. The device includes a shaft having a lumen with a cross-sectional shape and dimensions to allow the crown to enter the lumen while preventing the baseplate from entering the lumen. Also provided is a method for extracting from a body tissue a fastener having a crown, a baseplate and prongs extending from the crown to the baseplate. According to the method of the invention, the crown of a fastener is introduced into the hollow portion of the device of the invention while preventing the advancement of the baseplate by the distal part of the hollow shaft.
