Procedures on the phrenic nerve have reduced intensity, but the team evaluates the origin in the central nervous system
The former President of the Republic (PL) showed a reduction in the intensity of his hiccups after undergoing 3 interventions to block the phrenic nerve, but the effect was not enough to stop the clinical condition. The information was released by the medical team at Hospital DF Star this Wednesday (Dec 31, 2025).
According to doctors, the limited response to treatment led to the conclusion that the origin of the hiccups is not related to the diaphragm, but may be linked to the central nervous system. The assessment was made after observing the reaction of Bolsonaro’s body to the strengthening of the blockade applied on Tuesday (Dec 30, 2025).
The intervention sought to contain hiccups in the short term, pending a more lasting response from the body, which did not fully occur.
“Bilateral blockade of the phrenic nerve reduced the intensity of the hiccups, but did not stop the crisis. This indicates that the stimulus does not come from the diaphragm, but from the central nervous system“, declared surgeon Claudio Birolini.
Given the situation, the medical team recommended continuing drug treatment and adopting complementary therapies, such as diaphragm recruitment exercises, speech therapy and hypnosis.
According to Birolini, more invasive procedures on the phrenic nerve would not be effective. “A definitive intervention could cause paralysis of the diaphragm without resolving the spasms, which are hiccups”these.
According to doctors, hypnosis can act as an auxiliary therapy by helping to modulate the body’s involuntary responses.
MEDICAL HIGH
Bolsonaro is expected to be discharged from hospital on Thursday (January 1, 2026). According to the medical team, the former president showed general clinical improvement.
“He is stable, with controlled pressure and better breathing. He had a mild arrhythmia, which has now resolved”said cardiologist Brasil Caiado.
Before release, Bolsonaro will undergo a new medical evaluation. The Federal District Superintendence will be responsible for taking you back to the Federal Police.
