Rep. Dingell leaves hospital after heart procedure

Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — U.S. Rep. John Dingell has left a Detroit hospital after undergoing a procedure to correct an abnormal heart rhythm.

The minimally invasive procedure was performed Thursday at Henry Ford Hospital.

Hospital spokesman David Olejarz said Friday Dingell "has gone home as planned."

The 87-year-old Dearborn Democrat was diagnosed with atrial flutter, a disorder in which the heart's upper chambers beat rapidly and ineffectively.

Dingell plans to return to work when Congress reconvenes March 24 and will have a light workload during the time in between. The hospital says Dingell will continue on a medication regimen of blood thinners and arrhythmia medications.

Dingell said last month he will not seek re-election this year. He's the longest-serving congressman in history.

Democratic activist Debbie Dingell is a candidate for her husband's Detroit-area seat.