By Skylar Laird
COLUMBIA — Gov. Henry McMaster is recovering Friday following a successful outpatient procedure to fix his irregular heartbeat.
The 76-year-old governor was under anesthesia for less than two hours for the non-invasive, elective procedure. No emergencies arose during that time, meaning Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette did not have to take any executive action, according to the governor’s office.
McMaster was back at home Friday afternoon at the Governor’s Mansion. He will return to his normal work schedule Saturday.
McMaster’s cardiologist discovered and initially treated the irregularity in April 2022. McMaster was preparing for a minor knee surgery to fix a tear in his meniscus caused during a game of tennis with his wife when the doctor noticed his heartbeat was irregular, The Associated Press reported at the time.
The condition, known as atrial fibrillation or AFib, happens when the heart’s upper chambers beat out of sync with the lower chambers. This can cause blood clots, as well as increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Amy Rawl Epps, the governor’s cardiologist, described the procedure as “very successful and uncomplicated.”
“He is recovering well,” Epps said in a statement.
Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues. Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau.
