Prince Philip, who has missed some official events due to illness over the past year, has been admitted to a London hospital for “an exploratory operation,” Buckingham Palace announced Thursday.
Philip’s operation comes after “abdominal investigations,” according to a Palace statement. He is expected to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks.
The 91-year-old Duke of Edinburgh was driven to the London Clinic for a pre-planned admittance after a garden party hosted by Queen Elizabeth II.
"He is in good spirits," a spokeswoman for the palace told The Associated Press. She did not offer more details on the prince’s condition. His operation will take place on Friday.
“My best wishes to the Duke of Edinburgh who is in hospital tonight,” British Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted Thursday. “I hope he has a swift recovery.”
On Monday, Philip pulled out of a gala event to mark the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s coronation due to illness. However, he was at his wife’s side for a service at Westminster Abbey to mark the occasion on Tuesday.
Philip was also hospitalized with a bladder infection last summer, as the Royal Family was celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. He has also been treated for heart disease.
Philip turns 92 on Monday.
The Queen is expected to keep to her schedule of events on Friday, including a visit to the BBC’s new London studio.
