Bret Michaels has undergone mandatory surgery in Phoenix to repair a hole in his heart. A surgical team performed the procedure earlier today at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center.

Officials told the press that Michaels would undergo a “cardiac catheterization” in which doctors insert a catheter into a vein located in the groin, and guide wires and a closure device into the heart with cameras assisting doctors as they operate to close the hole. The closure device will remain in the rock star’s heart to permanently stop abnormal blood flow between the two chambers of his heart.

Without the procedure, doctors said Michaels would be at risk for developing blood clots and an additional stroke, and even death. Doctors discovered the hole in the rocker’s heart in April of last year while treating him for a brain hemorrhage that almost took his life.

Get well soon Bret!

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