To date, transapical (TA) access has proven to be a safe and effective method of performing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis. Current transcatheter mitral valve technologies are forthcoming, with the majority being performed via the TA access route. Current first generation devices will utilize >34F sheaths for deployment of the new mitral technology. It is quite feasible that novel apical access may potentially facilitate access and closure of this high-risk patient population.
