Published on Mar. 26, 2026
At 102 years old, Dudley Gladding faced a challenge that threatened his independence: severe aortic stenosis. Thanks to a minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, Dudley not only overcame the condition—he became the oldest patient in Orange County to receive this life-changing treatment.
Dudley’s Relationship with Saddleback Medical Center
Dudley first became a patient at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in late 2022 after experiencing daily shortness of breath. His symptoms led to frequent doctor visits as he searched for answers.
To uncover the cause, Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, ordered an echocardiogram. This advanced imaging test helps identify heart valve issues and other cardiac conditions.
MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute offers a full range of diagnostic screenings—including electrocardiograms (EKG), echocardiograms, cardiac CT scans, cardiac MRI, and cardiac catheterization—to detect heart conditions early and create personalized treatment plans for every patient.
Discovering the Cause of Dudley’s Heart Condition
The echocardiogram revealed that Dudley had aortic stenosis—a narrowing of the aortic valve that restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Common symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, and fainting. Left untreated, the condition can lead to thickening of the heart’s left ventricle and eventually heart failure.
“Valves are like doors that control blood flow from the heart to the body,” explains Dr. Chen. “The aortic valve is the main door, and as we age, it can narrow and block blood flow, leading to aortic stenosis.”
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Aortic Stenosis
To treat Dudley’s condition, Dr. Chen recommended TAVR—a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery. This procedure involves guiding a catheter through a blood vessel, usually in the leg, to the heart. A new valve is then placed inside the damaged one, restoring normal blood flow.
“TAVR is a great option for older patients because it avoids the risks of open-heart surgery. Most of my patients go home the very next day.”
- Dr. Chen
Saddleback Medical Center is a premier destination for heart valve replacement procedures, offering advanced cardiac care and innovative treatments, such as TAVR, typically found at leading academic institutions. Patients benefit from advanced expertise and innovative technology while receiving care in the welcoming and personalized environment of a community hospital. This unique combination ensures access to the latest treatments and care protocols without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
TAVR is a modern, minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery involving threading a catheter through a blood vessel, typically via the leg, and guiding it to the heart. Once in place, a new man-made valve is placed within the damaged aortic valve, expanding to push the old valve aside and taking over its function.
“I feel like a new man after receiving my TAVR. I’m able to go back to the life I had and no longer worry about any of the previous symptoms I had before treatment. I can’t thank Dr. Chen enough.”
- Dudley
TAVR is primarily beneficial to older patients who are at high risk for complications during open-heart surgery. This allows them to receive the same benefits of open-heart surgery with little to no complications - it is an effective alternative that improves symptoms and quality of life.
Thriving Again After Advanced Heart Care
Now, Dudley is 105 years old and healthier than ever. He’s returned to the active lifestyle he had, including routine walks throughout the day. He has enjoyed his improved health by going on three separate trips this year: New Orleans, Washington D.C, and Mexico.
“Dr. Chen saw right away what the problem was and set up a plan to make me feel better,” says Dudley. “I am more than satisfied and deeply thankful for the team at Saddleback for their commitment to my health – I completely trusted them with my life. Their support encouraged me to keep on going and advocate for my own health.”
To see if you are at risk for heart disease, take our heart health risk assessment.
