Analysis of media reports and official statements

Brazil's President Lula Undergoes Successful Second Procedure to Prevent Brain Bleeding

Dec 12, 2024, 11:15 AM

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva underwent a second medical procedure on Thursday, December 12, 2024, to minimize the risk of future brain bleeding after an earlier emergency surgery this week. The procedure began at 7:25 am at the Sírio-Libanês Hospital in São Paulo and involved embolization of the meningeal artery via catheterization to prevent additional hemorrhages under his skull. According to his personal physician, Dr. Roberto Kalil Filho, the operation was successful, lasting less than an hour, and President Lula is awake and conversing. Dr. Kalil noted that the procedure is considered low risk and does not prolong Lula's hospitalization. The disclosure of the procedure was at the request of President Lula himself. During his recovery, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin is assuming certain duties, including chairing the Economic and Social Development Council meeting ("Conselhão").