Brazil's incarcerated former leader, Jair Bolsonaro, has recently undergone a second medical procedure aimed at treating his chronic hiccups. This procedure took place just three days after the initial treatment.
Doctors executed a 'phrenic nerve block procedure' to block his left phrenic nerve, following a successful treatment of his right nerve just days earlier. This nerve, located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating the diaphragm and, by extension, breathing.
Currently serving a 27-year sentence after his attempts to overturn the results of the 2022 election, Bolsonaro's health has been a concern, especially following recent complications. His medical team, led by Dr. Claudio Birolini, stated that his condition remains stable post-procedure.
The team expressed optimism, noting that if recovery proceeds smoothly, he could be discharged as early as January 1. Bolsonaro had previously received treatment for hiccups after undergoing successful hernia surgery on Christmas Day, and has been struggling with persistent hiccups for the past nine months, according to his wife, Michelle.
In light of his ongoing health issues, Bolsonaro's family has been vocal about their struggles, with his wife describing the ordeal as a 'nine-month struggle and anguish.' Despite his current challenges, Bolsonaro has endorsed his son for a political run against President Luis Inácio Lula da Silva in the upcoming 2026 elections.
