Gov. Mark Dayton undergoes successful back surgery

Published 7:29 am Tuesday, October 16, 2018

ST. PAUL — Gov. Mark Dayton’s office says his latest back surgery was a success.

Dayton underwent a third procedure to fuse several vertebrae in his lower back Friday morning. The operation was meant to improve the 71-year-old governor’s leg strength and stability.

Spokesman Matt Swenson said Dayton was conscious and resting after a successful surgery at Mayo Clinic on Friday afternoon. The governor will remain in the hospital for several days of recovery.

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Dayton has been hampered by health problems throughout his two terms in office. He’s had three back surgeries, a procedure to repair a torn hip muscle and was treated for prostate cancer last year. Dayton revealed his diagnosis one day after collapsing during his State of the State address.