By GLOBONEWS.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was rushed to São Paulo’s Sírio-Libanês Hospital in the early hours of Monday, December 9, where he underwent emergency surgery to drain a cranial haematoma. The condition resulted from a domestic accident in October, during which the president suffered a fall at the Palácio da Alvorada.
According to the latest medical bulletin released at 4 a.m., an MRI scan confirmed intracranial bleeding linked to the earlier trauma. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the 79-year-old president is conscious and stable, receiving care in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU). He is being treated by a team led by renowned cardiologist Dr Roberto Kalil Filho and neurologist Dr Angela Helena Germoglio.
Surgical procedure and recovery
The surgery, performed to remove a blood clot causing severe headaches, was successful. Neurologist Ricardo Oliveira explained on Globonews that such procedures require careful monitoring.
“The intracranial clot resulted from the October accident. Post-surgery recovery involves intensive observation to prevent complications and monitor for potential recurrences,” he said.
Oliveira noted that intracranial bleeding is relatively common among elderly individuals due to the fragility of blood vessels. Even minor head traumas can lead to slow, progressive bleeding. However, Lula’s medical team confirmed that the president has not suffered any neurological impairments and remains stable.
October accident and its implications
The haematoma stems from a fall on October 19, when President Lula slipped in the bathroom and struck the back of his head. At the time, he received five stitches and underwent imaging scans, which initially showed no major complications.
On medical advice, the president cancelled several high-profile international engagements, including his planned participation in the BRICS Summit in Russia and the COP on Biodiversity in Cali, Colombia. His absence from these events raised concerns, but the precautionary measures now appear to have been justified given the delayed onset of the haematoma.
Looking ahead
The medical team remains optimistic about Lula’s full recovery, but the president is expected to stay under observation for several days. Further tests will determine when he may be discharged.
Meanwhile, Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin is expected to temporarily assume key duties to ensure continuity of governance. Adjustments to the president’s schedule will prioritise his recovery.
The development has prompted an outpouring of support from national and international leaders, reflecting Lula’s pivotal role in Brazilian politics. The president’s health remains a top priority, as he continues to navigate the demands of leadership while recovering under expert medical care.
