Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi underwent a successful hip replacement surgery after sustaining an injury while traveling in Europe.
CBS News reported that Pelosi was hospitalized during a congressional trip to Luxembourg, where she had been attending events marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, and was later transported to Germany for the surgery.
Pelosi, who remains a prominent figure in the Democratic Party as Speaker Emerita, was part of a U.S. congressional delegation in Luxembourg for the anniversary event. She was initially treated at Kirchberg Hospital in Luxembourg City before being transported for further treatment.
The U.S. Defense Department provided medevac support to transport Pelosi from Luxembourg to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center at Landstuhl Army Base in Germany. The surgery was successfully performed at the medical center on Saturday, with Pelosi’s spokesperson, Ian Krager, providing an update on her condition.
Krager stated, “Earlier this morning, Speaker Emerita Pelosi underwent a successful hip replacement and is well on the mend. Speaker Pelosi is grateful to U.S. military staff at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center at Landstuhl Army Base and medical staff at Hospital Kirchberg in Luxembourg for their excellent care and kindness,” Krager added.
The injury, which led to the need for hip replacement surgery, came during an event marking a significant historical milestone—the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, a key World War II battle. However, details about the exact nature and severity of Pelosi's injury have not been disclosed by her spokesperson.
Dr. David Bernstein, an expert in orthopedic surgery, offered insight into the challenges of recovery for elderly individuals following major surgery.
“For elderly folks, recovery from anything is more challenging,” Dr. Bernstein explained. He added that the time it takes for recovery can vary widely depending on individual circumstances.
The recovery process after hip replacement surgery can take weeks to months, and, in some cases, up to a year for full mobility to return. According to Dr. Bernstein, pre-injury mobility is a key factor in determining how well a patient will recover. “Pre-injury mobility is really one of the biggest drivers of post-operative function and recovery,” he said.
Pelosi’s age may present additional challenges during her recovery. The former House Speaker, who is 84 years old, has been an influential figure in American politics, serving as the leader of the Democratic Party in the House for two decades, including two terms as Speaker.
She stepped aside from her leadership role two years ago but was re-elected in November to continue representing her San Francisco district.
Although Pelosi is no longer the Speaker of the House, her influence within the Democratic Party remains significant. She holds the title of Speaker Emerita, and many continue to regard her as a key political figure.
Pelosi has been an active advocate for various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive justice, despite stepping down from the leadership role. She has made occasional public appearances and continues to shape the direction of the Democratic Party through her presence and endorsements.
Her recent injury and surgery have raised questions about how her recovery might affect her future political activities. While her spokesperson has not given any indication that the surgery will impact her ability to serve in Congress, her recovery process will likely take priority in the coming months.
The incident has drawn attention to the physical challenges faced by elderly politicians. Pelosi’s injury, followed by the need for hip replacement surgery, underscores the difficulties older public figures may face when balancing a busy political career with health concerns.
At 84, Pelosi remains an active member of Congress, and the attention to her health during this period reflects ongoing conversations about the role of aging politicians in American politics.
The fact that Pelosi continues to serve despite her advanced age and health challenges speaks to her commitment to her role and her party.
Pelosi’s recovery is expected to continue over the next several weeks, as she regains strength following the surgery. While her spokesperson has reassured the public about her condition, the nature of her recovery will likely influence her upcoming schedule and political commitments.
