Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, underwent a second phrenic nerve block procedure on Monday to address persistent hiccups. The procedure, a non-surgical and minimally invasive intervention, was performed after Bolsonaro was temporarily released from prison, where he is serving a 27-year sentence for attempting to overturn the 2022 election.

According to his medical team, the treatment was successful, and Bolsonaro's condition is stable. He has been hospitalized since Christmas Eve, having received judicial permission to leave prison for hernia repair surgery. While that operation was also deemed successful, the hiccups persisted, prompting the phrenic nerve block. The initial procedure took place on Saturday, targeting the nerve on the right side.

The phrenic nerve plays a crucial role in breathing, controlling the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in respiration. A phrenic nerve block involves injecting a local anesthetic near the nerve to temporarily interrupt its function. This can help to alleviate conditions like persistent hiccups, which can be debilitating.

Bolsonaro's imprisonment stems from his alleged involvement in a coup attempt following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election. He has consistently denied the charges, claiming political persecution. His legal team has filed appeals, but so far, they have been unsuccessful. The former president's health has been a recurring concern since he left office. He has been hospitalized several times for various ailments, including intestinal issues and infections. The judicial permission granted for his surgeries highlights the balance between ensuring justice and addressing the medical needs of incarcerated individuals. No further details regarding Bolsonaro's release date have been given.