Prince Philip had a ‘successful procedure’, but will remain in hospital

Prince Philip's procedure for a pre-existing heart condition was successful. He underwent the operation at St Batholomews's Hospital, on Wednesday 3 March, 2021.

Prince Philip’s procedure for a pre-existing heart condition was successful. He underwent the operation at St Batholomews’s Hospital, on Wednesday 3 March. The Palace said the duke, who turns 100 in June, would remain in hospital for recuperation for some days.

The facts

Prince Philip was initially admitted to the private King Edward VII’s Hospital on February 16 as a precautionary measure after feeling unwell. Four days later, his eldest son the Prince of Wales visited him. Charles made a 200-mile round trip and stayed for around 30 minutes.

The Palace later said the duke went to the hospital because of an infection.

Prince Philip’s procedure

Philip was then moved to St Bartholomew’s on Monday. This is the home to Barts Heart Centre, the Europe’s largest specialised cardiovascular service. The duke was shielded from public view with umbrellas as he was transferred. The Palace later released a statement saying that he was comfortable. At the hospital, he underwent the procedure for his heart condition. Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, said Philip was “slightly improving” and that they’ll keep their fingers crossed.

The duke health condition

Philip has already had heart problems in the past. In 2011, he was rushed to hospital by helicopter from Sandringham after suffering chest pains as the Royal Family were preparing for Christmas. He underwent a procedure of coronary stenting, because of a blocked coronary artery, at Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire.

The duke has spent most of lockdown residing at Windsor Castle with the Queen for their safety, alongside a reduced household of staff. He and the Queen, who have been married for 73 years, have had their first Covid vaccine. After the procedure, the Duke will remain in hospital for a still not defined number of days. Doctors said that he needs rest and recuperation after the operation, which was quite invasive, especially for a 99 years old man.