Gloria Arroyo's displaced implant may cause 'sudden death' – Cardiologist

Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo underwent a computerized tomography (CT) scan on Monday to determine if the displaced titanium implant in her spine further worsened her condition.

 

In a medical bulletin dated August 11 but released to the media on Monday, Dr. Robert Anastacio, cardiologist from the Makati Medical Center, said Mrs. Arroyo is at risk of “sudden death” because the implant is blocking her respiratory tract.

 

“The presence of a displaced titanium plate is a serious factor in the mechanism of breathing and subsequently blood circulation which may lead to sudden death,” Anastacio said.

 

The cardiologist further explained that the plate is “compressing” the former President’s windpipe, and the muscles along her voice box.

 

He added that Mrs. Arroyo had to undergo another CT scan on Monday “to determine the status of the risk and how to address it.”

 

Anastacio also suggested that the former President seek a second opinion on her condition.

 

The ex-President underwent three surgical procedures last year at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City to correct a pinched nerve on her spine. The titanium implant was placed on her neck during the first procedure, and had to be corrected during the second operation. 

 

Mrs. Arroyo was released from hospital detention late last month after the Pasay court allowed her to post a P1-million bail in relation to her poll sabotage case. 

 

The former President, however, is still restricted from traveling abroad due to a hold departure order issued by the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court in connection with a separate plunder case filed against her for alleged misuse of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) funds. — DVM, GMA News