Ex-Italy Premier Has Surgery In Cleveland

ROME — A former Italian prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, had successful heart surgery yesterday at the Cleveland Heart Center, according to a statement sent by e-mail from his party headquarters in Rome.

Mr. Berlusconi, 70, had surgery "to correct an irregular heart beat," according to the statement. "Professor Andrea Natale, the head of the medical team, confirmed that the operation was a perfect success and that the normal, post-operative process is under way."

The statement didn't say exactly what surgical procedure was performed. Berlusconi, who lost the April national election to current Prime Minister Prodi by just 25,000 votes, arrived in America yesterday. Mr. Berlusconi is a two-time prime minister and Italy's wealthiest man. He owns Mediaset SpA, the country's largest private broadcaster.

"I'm truly happy to wish you the most sincere get-well wishes," Mr. Prodi said in a message to Mr. Berlusconi that was faxed to reporters. "I hope to see you very soon in Italy, combative and in good form as only a determined politician can be."

His spokesman Paolo Bonaiuti said yesterday that Mr. Berlusconi had gone to America to undergo some tests. Italian newspapers have reported that Mr. Berlusconi needed a pacemaker.