Emperor to be hospitalized on Friday for surgery

Emperor Akihito will enter the hospital on Friday, one day before his scheduled coronary bypass surgery.

The Emperor has been diagnosed with angina. Doctors advised him to undergo a bypass operation on 2 of his 3 coronary arteries to increase the blood supply to his heart.

The surgery will take place at the University of Tokyo hospital.

Doctors say if there are no complications, the Emperor will be able to leave the hospital in about 2 weeks.

The Emperor will continue to take part in official duties until Friday while keeping a watch on his health.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 15:51 +0900 (JST)

Emperor to receive treatment for arteriosclerosis

Japan's Emperor Akihito has a heart condition linked to arteriosclerosis and will be treated with medication.

The Emperor had a medical examination at the University of Tokyo hospital on Friday to check on his chronic heart problems.

Doctors performed an angiography to scan the Emperor's coronary arteries and analyze his blood flow. They detected insufficient blood flow to his heart.

The doctors concluded that symptoms related to the arteriosclerosis will not develop unless the Emperor does intense exercise, and that the condition will not affect his heart functions. They say surgery and treatment to expand blood vessels using a catheter will not be needed, but that the Emperor will need medication.

The Imperial Household Agency says the Emperor can continue his official duties, though he will need to take into account his arteriosclerosis when performing his duties.