JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Evangelist Billy Graham underwent outpatient surgery Friday at the Mayo Clinic-Jacksonville to relieve symptoms of his sinus infection and bronchitis.

In a procedure that took just under two hours, Dr. David Pearson, a facial surgeon, removed the bony portions that make up the openings of the affected sinuses. The surgery was performed under general anesthesia.

Pearson said he expects Graham, 83, to feel substantial and immediate relief from his sinus symptoms and experience fewer cases of sinusitis and bronchitis, according to a statement released by the Mayo Clinic.

After spending a night at St. Luke's Hospital to recover from the anesthesia, Graham was expected to be released Saturday. He was expected to return to North Carolina to convalesce.

Since November, Graham has suffered from recurring bouts of sinus and bronchial infections. Graham has Parkinson's disease and has undergone surgery to drain fluid from his brain.

During his regular checkup Wednesday, Graham's doctors placed a tiny tube in his right eardrum to relieve pressure caused by fluid buildup in his inner ear. Doctors said the problem caused his temporary hearing loss.

A representative for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association said the Graham should be ready for his next scheduled revival in June.

On The Net:

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
Mayo Clinic Jacksonville