Transthoracic access for transcatheter aortic valve replacement: technique using the Edwards Sapien Retroflex delivery system.

We describe our experience using the Edwards Sapien transfemoral Retroflex 3 catheter delivery system for transcatheter aortic valve replacement through the transapical and transaortic approaches. Transthoracic transcatheter valve replacement by the transapical and transaortic approaches can be safely and effectively performed with the Retroflex 3 delivery catheter, which affords several advantages over other available delivery devices.