Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is expected to leave intensive care on Friday after a successful follow-up operation, bringing hope for his swift recovery from life-altering brain surgery.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva Transferred to Regular Ward After Successful Follow-up Surgery
Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is expected to leave intensive care on Friday after a successful follow-up operation to reduce the risk of bleeding following his unplanned brain surgery earlier this week.
The 79-year-old leader underwent emergency surgery on Tuesday to drain a brain haematoma, a delayed result of a fall in the bathroom of the official residence in Brasília on October 19. After the initial procedure, which involved trepanation and drainage of the bleeding, Lula underwent a non-surgical procedure known as middle meningeal artery embolisation on Thursday morning.
According to his personal doctor, Dr Roberto Kalil Filho, the president was “awake and talking” after the procedure, which involved sedation but did not require general anaesthesia. The neurosurgeon Dr Marcos Stavale confirmed that the procedure blocked blood flow to the site of the original bleed, making it statistically negligible to have another bleed.
Lula’s medical team has repeatedly emphasized that his cognitive abilities have not been affected, with neurologist Dr Rogério Tuma stating that “he is cognitively fine and neurologically fit. He’s normal.” However, they also stressed that the president should avoid physical and mental exertion for several days to ensure a smooth recovery.
The medical team has recommended that Lula refrain from working, avoid stress, and not receive visitors while he remains in hospital. Despite this, there is no indication that his condition will prevent him from performing his duties as head of state.
