Saudi king leaves New York hospital

[December 22, 2010]  RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) -- Saudi Arabia's royal palace says King Abdullah has left the Presbyterian Hospital in New York City in good health after two successful back surgeries.

Wednesday's statement from the palace says the monarch will remain in New York for recuperation and to continue his physical therapy. It doesn't say how long that will take.

The statement says Abdullah left the hospital late Tuesday evening.

The 86-year-old king had his first surgery last month for a slipped disk and a blood clot pressing on the nerves in his back. The second surgery, meant to stabilize a number of vertebrae, was performed early this month.

Before he left for the United States, Abdullah temporarily handed control of the kingdom to Crown Prince Sultan, his 85-year-old half brother.

[Associated Press]

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