Japan: Emperor Akihito is doing well after heart bypass surgery
Japan: Emperor Akihito is doing well after heart bypass surgery
Jay Doggett
Modern Tokyo Times
Emperor Akihito of Japan is reportedly doing well after undergoing heart bypass surgery. In recent years Emperor Akihito’s health is a cause of major concern because in 2003 he underwent surgery for prostate cancer and in 2008 stress related issues hindered his health. However, it appears that the Emperor’s heart bypass surgery which took place on February 18 is a success but of course it is too early to say with complete confidence.
Obviously, for the next few weeks Emperor Akihito will be monitored around the clock but providing everything goes according to plan, then he can return home. Doctors who performed the surgery and who will be behind his post-operative treatment came from two highly acclaimed hospitals. This applies to Juntendo University Hospital and the University of Tokyo Hospital. Therefore, Emperor Akihito is in excellent hands and now he needs time to recuperate.
Doctors involved in the surgery gave different comments because one was extremely optimistic while another doctor remained more cautious. Minoru Ono commented that “The operation went smoothly as planned…We confirmed a sufficient blood flow back in the arteries.” This also correlates to what the Emperor stated afterwards because he stated “it feels good.”
However, Emperor Akihito stated this after only just regaining complete consciousness after the heart bypass surgery. Also, Emperor Akihito would not want to upset the Empress and other family members who are deeply concerned about his health condition.
Another doctor, Atsushi Amano, was more cautious because he didn’t want to be over confident because the full effects of the surgery will not be known until the post-operative treatment is over. Therefore, Atsushi Amano commented that success can only be “measured by whether the emperor can regain the normal lifestyle he had wished for.”
Of course, Atsushi Amano and the people of Japan are hoping for this and he added that “We are looking forward to that day, but until then, we’ll use the word success sparingly.” The comments by Atsushi Amano are deeply appreciated because major surgery like this is never easy and given past health complications and the age of the Emperor, it is vital to remain on the side of caution and focus on post-operative care.
The role of Emperor Akihito within the body politic of Japan may be based on symbolism but the Emperor and the Empress have done great work in bringing the monarchy closer to the people of Japan. Also, throughout the international arena both individuals are widely respected because of their compassion and humble approach.
It is hoped that everything will go swimmingly over the next few weeks and that the Emperor will be able to return home.
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