Lalu undergoes cardiac surgery in Mumbai

RJD leaders and well-wishers performing ‘hawan’ at party office in Patna for speedy recovery of party chief Lalu Prasad on Wednesday. Photo: Ranjeet Kumar

Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad on Wednesday underwent cardiac surgery for multiple conditions at a Mumbai hospital.

The surgery lasted for more than six hours and the leader is said to be recovering after the procedures.

The former Bihar Chief Minister had a 3mm hole in his heart repaired and also underwent aortic repair and AVR-aortic valve replacement procedures, doctors said.

Mr. Prasad, who was on Monday admitted to the Asian Heart Institute, was diagnosed with aortic stenosis.

Cardiac surgeon and vice-chairman AHI, Ramakant Panda, described the operation as “flawless.” It was performed by a team of 20 doctors.

Mr. Prasad will be kept in the intensive care unit for 3-4 days and in recovery for another week.

Mr. Prasad received wishes for a speedy recovery from politicians across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Mr. Modi expressed “concern” over Mr. Prasad’s health. “I wish Lalu ji a speedy recovery and pray for his good health,” said Mr. Modi. RJD members conducted a ‘havan’ in Patna for their leader’s speedy recovery and good health.