In a press conference addressing the situation of the surgery, Maria João Baptista stated that Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is “cooperative” and remains under observation due to the need to ensure all is well following surgery for an incarcerated hernia conducted on Tuesday night.
“There is always a risk of infection. At this moment, it is low,” Maria João Baptista commented.
The president of the Local Health Unit of São João (ULSSJ) remarked that the post-operative process is progressing “favorably, as expected,” although it is necessary to monitor developments hourly.
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was admitted on Monday night to the Hospital of São João, in Porto, after feeling unwell, according to the Presidency of the Republic.
The head of state underwent surgery for an incarcerated hernia on Monday night and today received visits from the President of the Assembly of the Republic, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, and the Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro.
In the day’s second press conference regarding Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa’s health status, Maria João Baptista noted that “he has eaten, tolerated the food, and has already gotten up, which is usual in these cases.”
“Therefore, he is well (…). Some routine tests need to be performed. Everything done so far is fine. Essentially, it’s necessary to check if the intestines are functioning normally and if he is eating properly. He has had a light meal, as is customary in these situations,” Maria João Baptista remarked.
The doctor emphasized that “this surgery was performed very promptly,” praising the “prudence” of the Presidency’s team “for seeking medical care in a very timely manner, and consequently, it went well.”
“If a few more hours had passed, it might not have been the case (…). The President has been extremely cooperative and has adhered very strictly to everything advised by the health team,” she concluded.
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, aged 76, presided over the Restoration Heroes and War of the Aclamação commemorations on Monday morning at Praça dos Restauradores, Lisbon, celebrating the restoration of national independence in 1640, before attending the funeral ceremonies of the former president of Mota-Engil, António Mota.
