WASHINGTON — The White House released information Monday on the MRI exam President Trump underwent following weeks of media speculation — declaring Trump, 79, to be in “excellent overall health.”
Presidential physician Dr. Sean Barbabella released a memo describing the October exam as standard and its findings as “perfectly normal.”
“As part of President Donald J. Trump’s comprehensive executive physical, advanced imaging was performed because men in his age group benefit from a thorough evaluation of cardiovascular and abdominal health,” Barbabella wrote.
“The purpose of this imaging is preventative: to identify issues early, confirm overall health, and ensure he maintains long-term vitality and function. President Trump’s cardiovascular imaging is perfectly normal.”
The doctor added: “There is no evidence of arterial narrowing impairing the blood flow or abnormalities in the heart or major vessels. The heart chambers are normal in size, the vessel walls appear smooth and healthy, and there are no signs of inflammation, or clotting. Overall, his cardiovascular system shows excellent health.”
Trump let slip on Oct. 27 that he had undergone the MRI during a checkup at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Oct.10, saying the procedure was “perfect” — prompting weeks of followup questions from journalists.
The MRI was not mentioned on an initial White House readout of his annual physical.
“His abdominal imaging is also perfectly normal,” Barbabella wrote.
“All major organs appear very healthy and well-perfused. Everything evaluated is functioning within normal limits with no acute or chronic concerns. Summary: This level of detailed assessment is standard for an executive physical at President Trump’s age and confirms that he remains in excellent overall health.”
Trump on July 17 was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a blood circulation issue, after noticing “mild swelling in his lower legs,” the White House said at the time.
That condition is primarily treated by use of compression stockings to prevent blood clots, experts said.
Trump also has had a recurring bruise on his hand, which officials have explained as the result of both aspirin as a heart-health preventative regime and shaking many hands.
