Overview
- The former Brazilian president underwent bilateral inguinal hernia surgery on Dec. 25 and has since had three phrenic nerve blocks, including a reinforcement on Tuesday, to address persistent hiccups.
- His team reports a stable condition with previous hypertension spikes controlled, and says medicines are beginning to ease the hiccup episodes though the issue is not fully resolved.
- An endoscopy performed Wednesday confirmed gastritis and erosive esophagitis, which doctors say may underlie the recurrent hiccups.
- Upon discharge, he must return to the Federal Police facility where he is serving a 27‑year sentence, with doctors authorized by the Supreme Court to provide follow‑up care there.
- Ongoing care includes respiratory physiotherapy, sleep apnea treatment and thrombosis prevention, and clinicians may add medication adjustments or speech therapy to manage the hiccups.