Arroyo to undergo cervical spine surgery Friday–doctors

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MANILA, Philippines – Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will undergo up to five hours of surgery for her cervical spine Friday morning, her doctors told a press briefing aired live on radio and television Thursday.

A 990AM report said Arroyo was being prepared for the operation that was expected to take place at 7 a.m. Friday.

The report said up to 10 specialists would be part of the surgery that would involve putting implants in the former president’s cervical spine to arrest the growing weakness in her limbs, which quoting doctors, could paralyze her.

Arroyo will be placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after the operation and is given up to 10 days to recover.

Although she was not allowed to receive visitors, 33 village chairmen from her Candaba in Pampanga saw her earlier on Thursday.

Arroyo was rushed to the St. Luke’s Medical Center at the Global City in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City early this week after she experienced a weakness in her limbs.

Prior to her confinement, Arroyo is facing several plunder cases for her alleged involvement in the alleged questionable use of funds of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, among others.