Ex-president George W. Bush has heart surgery to place stent

Former President George W. Bush underwent surgery Tuesday in Dallas to have a stent placed in an artery in his heart, officials said. His physicians recommended the surgery after a blockage in his heart was discovered during a routine physical Monday at the Cooper Clinic, KHOU-TV, Houston, said. The surgery was performed at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital. In a statement, Bush was said to be "in high spirits, eager to return home tomorrow." "He is grateful to the skilled medical professionals who have cared for him," the statement continued. "He thanks his family, friends, and fellow citizens for their prayers and well wishes. And he encourages us all to get our regular check-ups." He was expected to resume a regular schedule Thursday.