WASHINGTON – Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., underwent triple bypass heart surgery Monday at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
"Senator McConnell this morning underwent a successful triple bypass procedure. It was uneventful and totally satisfactorily performed. It is anticipated that his post-operative course will be uncomplicated and the prognosis for full and unrestricted recovery is excellent," said Dr. Alan M. Speir, clinical chief of cardiothoracic surgery.
The 60-year-old senator underwent a routine screening last Friday when arterial blockages were found.
McConnell, the Senate Republican whip, consulted with Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., before choosing the elective surgery.
"I want to applaud Senator McConnell for the proactive step of taking an exercise stress test even though he felt just fine. Early detection is the best possible way to protect your health as Senator McConnell has proven," Frist said.
McConnell's wife, Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, was present with the senator in recovery.
There was no estimate of how many days McConnell would be in the hospital or away from his Senate duties.
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