Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 87, underwent a non-surgical medical procedure at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City to revise a bile duct stent, the Supreme Court announced Wednesday night. She is expected to be released by the end of the week.
The procedure is considered common and was performed using minimally invasive techniques, including endoscopy and medical imaging guidance, to reduce the risk of infection. The original stent was placed in August 2019 during Ginsburg’s treatment for a cancerous tumor on her pancreas.
FILE – Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg speaks at Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., on February 10, 2020. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
This procedure follows another at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore earlier this month to clean the stent. Ginsburg was admitted to the hospital after experiencing fever and chills, indicative of a possible infection.
The Supreme Court’s statement assured the public that Justice Ginsburg is resting comfortably and anticipates leaving the hospital by the end of the week.
Earlier this month, Justice Ginsburg, the oldest member of the nine-member court, announced she is undergoing chemotherapy for a recurrence of cancer. This is her fifth bout with cancer. The liberal justice stated that the treatment has effectively reduced lesions on her liver.
Justice Ginsburg’s Health and Legal Legacy
Justice Ginsburg’s health battles have been a recurring concern, especially given her advanced age and pivotal role on the Supreme Court. Her unwavering dedication to her judicial duties despite these challenges has garnered widespread admiration. Her legal career, marked by her advocacy for gender equality and civil rights, has cemented her status as a legal icon. From her early work as a lawyer with the ACLU to her appointment to the Supreme Court by President Bill Clinton, Ginsburg has consistently championed the rights of the marginalized and underrepresented.
The Importance of Bile Duct Stents
Bile duct stents are small tubes inserted into the bile duct to alleviate blockages that can be caused by tumors, gallstones, or other conditions. They help ensure the proper flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine, aiding in digestion. Stent revisions, like the one Justice Ginsburg underwent, are often necessary to maintain the stent’s functionality and prevent complications such as infections. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure minimizes patient discomfort and recovery time.
Former President Donald Trump in a New York courtroom.
Other High-Profile Court Cases
While Justice Ginsburg’s health remains a focus of attention, other significant legal proceedings continue to unfold across the nation. Former President Donald Trump’s legal team recently argued before the Supreme Court, urging the court to avoid involvement in a dispute concerning his potential criminal charges related to the 2020 election and claims of immunity. The Supreme Court also recently rejected an appeal from Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted of murdering George Floyd. Chauvin’s attorney argued that pretrial publicity and concerns about potential violence prevented a fair trial.
The Future of the Supreme Court
Justice Ginsburg’s health has intensified discussions about the future of the Supreme Court and the potential for shifts in its ideological balance. Any vacancy on the court creates an opportunity for a president to nominate a new justice, who, upon confirmation by the Senate, can serve a lifetime appointment. The implications of such appointments are significant, impacting the interpretation of laws and the direction of the court for decades to come. The upcoming presidential election further underscores the importance of these appointments and the role the Supreme Court plays in American society.
Conclusion
Justice Ginsburg’s recent procedure and ongoing health challenges highlight the human element behind the often-imposing institution of the Supreme Court. Her resilience and dedication to public service continue to inspire. The court’s announcement of her expected release offers reassurance, while also reminding us of the importance of her continued health and well-being. Her legacy as a champion of justice and equality will undoubtedly endure, shaping the legal landscape for generations to come.
