US News

W. has minor heart op

Former President George W. Bush successfully underwent a heart procedure in Dallas yesterday after doctors discovered a blockage in an artery during his annual physical, Bush spokesman Freddy Ford said.

“At the recommendation of his doctors, President Bush agreed to have a stent placed to open the blockage,” Ford said yesterday. “The procedure was performed successfully this morning, without complication, at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital.”

Bush, 67, was expected to be discharged today and resume his normal schedule tomorrow.

The blockage was discovered Monday at the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, where the nation’s 43rd president lives.

Bush was described as being “in high spirits” and eager to return home.

“He is grateful to the skilled medical professionals who have cared for him,” Ford said. “He thanks his family, friends, and fellow citizens for their prayers and well-wishes.”