ESPN's Dick Vitale released from hospital after successful vocal cord surgery
Dick Vitale is officially out of the hospital and resting after undergoing major surgery on his vocal cords, the legendary broadcaster announced via ESPN on Thursday.
Vitale was reportedly released from Mass General Hospital on Wednesday, a day after a procedure performed by vocal cord specialist Dr. Steven Zeitels. The three-hour surgery successfully treated Vitale's carcinoma in situ, a severe form of dysplasia, on his vocal cords via a KTP laser.
Vitale is reportedly due back in March for a follow-up examination, but for now, he's home and resting. The 82-year-old has been on voice rest for the past four weeks to clear up his inflammation, and he has been ordered to rest for four more weeks to aid the healing process.
Per Vitale, Dr. Zeitels is optimistic he will be able to return to the broadcast booth for the 2022-23 season.
Vitale's reaction, which is impossible to not read in his voice:
A big THANK YOU to Dr. Zeitels and his staff and many others at Mass General for caring for me in such a professional manner. Dr. Z and all involved in my surgery and treatment were “Awesome Baby” with a capital ‘A.’
Also, THANKS to ALL that sent prayers, well wishes, and love, as that played a vital role in helping me establish a strong mental and emotional mindset.
Dick Vitale's health struggles
It has been a difficult several months for Vitale's health. He had a melanoma removed last August before being diagnosed with lymphoma in October. He told Yahoo Sports' Dan Wetzel he was initially diagnosed with bile duct cancer, a far more serious illness with a low survival rate, but further testing revealed that wasn't the case.
Steroids and six months of chemotherapy allowed Vitale to eventually return to the booth, an emotional moment at a No. 1 vs. No. 2 game between Gonzaga and UCLA. Unfortunately, the vocal cord issue, which is separate from his cancer treatments, necessitated the end of his season as he prepared for surgery.
The good news is that while these are all serious illnesses, they seem to have so far been treatable. Hopefully, Vitale will back and in his usual spirits by next fall.
