Mandela undergoes successful gallstone surgery
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Giant portraits of former African National Congress (ANC) presidents, including former South African President Nelson Mandela (right), overlook Bloemfontein, South Africa on Thursday, Dec 13, 2012. South Africa's presidency says Mr Mandela has undergone successful surgery to remove gallstones. -- PHOTO: AP
JOHANNESBURG (AP) - South Africa's presidency says Nelson Mandela has undergone successful surgery to remove gallstones.
The presidency said the 94-year-old Mandela underwent the surgery Saturday. The presidency said Mandela's doctors wanted to treat a recurrent lung infection before putting him through the surgery.
The statement said: "The procedure was successful and Madiba is recovering." It referred to Mandela by his clan name as a sign of affection.
Mandela has been hospitalised since Dec. 8.
