We report our initial experience with transapical aortic valve implantation. All six of our patients were octogenarians, all had significant associated comorbid conditions and, according to the logistic EuroSCORE, their mortality was expected to be 22%. All procedures were performed successfully and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Five patients were discharged between postoperative days 5 and 7 with normally functioning prostheses.