A method and device for puncturing the atrial septum to gain access to the left atrium without causing unintended injury to left atrial tissue. Specifically, the device includes a transseptal needle having a compressible shaft and a puncturing tip. As the transseptal needle is advanced through a delivery sheath and into contact with the septum, the compressible shaft is compressed and stores a minimal amount of mechanical energy but allows force transfer along its length. Force continues to be applied to the needle by the user until the puncturing tip punctures the septum. As the puncturing tip advances through the puncture and into the left atrium, any mechanical energy stored in the compressible shaft is immediately released, and the transfer of force is discontinued, by physical deformation of the compressible shaft. Thus, the puncturing tip enters the left atrium without causing injury to left atrial wall tissue.
