Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, underwent a second phrenic nerve block procedure on Monday to address persistent hiccups. The procedure, according to his medical team, was successful, and Bolsonaro's condition is stable.
Bolsonaro, a far-right politician, has been hospitalized since Christmas Eve after receiving judicial permission to leave prison for hernia repair surgery. He is currently serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup to overturn the 2022 election results. The hernia operation was successful, but the hiccups, which have persisted for months, prompted doctors to perform a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure on Saturday to block the phrenic nerve on the right side.
The phrenic nerve controls the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in breathing. Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, often caused by irritation or stimulation of the phrenic nerve. A phrenic nerve block involves injecting a local anesthetic near the nerve to temporarily stop its function, thus halting the hiccups. This procedure can be performed using image guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to ensure accurate placement of the anesthetic.
Bolsonaro was imprisoned in September for plotting to overturn his 2022 election loss. His legal team secured a temporary release for him to undergo the necessary medical procedures. The judicial authorization highlights the balance between ensuring the rights of prisoners to medical care and maintaining public safety.
The persistence of Bolsonaro's hiccups despite the initial phrenic nerve block suggests the underlying cause may be complex. Further diagnostic testing may be necessary to identify any contributing factors and guide future treatment strategies. His medical team will continue to monitor his condition and determine the next steps in his care.
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