Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, underwent a second phrenic nerve block procedure on Monday to address persistent hiccups. His medical team reported the treatment was successful and his condition is stable.

Bolsonaro, currently serving a 27-year prison sentence for attempting to overturn the 2022 election, was temporarily released from prison to receive medical treatment. He had been hospitalized since Christmas Eve after being granted judicial permission for hernia repair surgery. While that operation was successful, the hiccups persisted for months, leading to the phrenic nerve block.

The phrenic nerve controls the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in breathing. A phrenic nerve block is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure designed to interrupt nerve signals that may be causing the hiccups. The procedure Bolsonaro underwent on Saturday targeted the phrenic nerve on the right side.

Bolsonaro's imprisonment stems from his alleged involvement in a coup attempt following his loss in the 2022 presidential election. He has consistently denied these allegations. His legal team has argued for his release, citing health concerns. The judicial permission granted for his hernia surgery and subsequent treatment for hiccups highlights the complexities of balancing justice with humanitarian considerations.

The long-term effectiveness of the phrenic nerve block in resolving Bolsonaro's hiccups remains to be seen. His medical team will continue to monitor his condition. No further details regarding his return to prison have been released.