Doctors Rate Reagan’s Recovery From Surgery ‘Superb’

WASHINGTON — President Reagan enjoyed a “superb” recovery from prostate surgery six weeks ago and has the go-ahead from his physicians to resume a full schedule, White House spokesman Marlin Fitzwater said Tuesday.

“The President is in excellent health,” Fitzwater told reporters.

Reagan, who underwent prostate surgery on Jan. 5, was advised to avoid strenuous exercise and adopt a limited work schedule for the usual six-week recovery period.

Fitzwater said he spoke with Reagan’s physician, Col. John Hutton, who reported that “the President’s post-operative recuperation has been superb.”

Appearances to Increase

The spokesman said the group of physicians who treated Reagan during his hospitalization believe that the President can resume his normal schedule.

Fitzwater said this will be reflected in an increase in Reagan’s appearances, such as travels around the country on behalf of his trade and competitiveness proposals, as well as resumption of his personal exercise program.

Normally, the President has followed a daily workout program with free weights and a Nautilus machine, his spokesman said.

Asked whether the adoption of a normal schedule will mean that reporters will be allowed to question the President, Fitzwater said: “You’ll see a return to normal coverage.”