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BANGKOK, May 24 - His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Tuesday proceeded to the Siriraj Hospital pier to view the water level of Chao Phraya River, his first public appearance since undergoing an spinal tap operation on May 2. The monarch, adorned in a pink shirt, appeared to the public with a happy face, sitting on an electric wheelchair and passing a large assemblage of well-wishers lining the way at Siriraj Hospital to catch a glimpse on him.
A statement issued by the Royal Household Bureau late Monday said the treatment was satisfactory and the king can move more easily after the operation was performed to drain excessive cerebrospinal fluid, which may cause him to walk unsteadily. There was no complication after the operation and his physicians advised him to continue leg and foot exercise to strengthen his muscle.
His overall condition is good, enjoying normal body temperature, blood pressure, heart and respiratory system functions. The 83-year-old monarch was admitted to Siriraj Hospital in September 2009 with fever, fatigue and a lung inflammation. King Bhumibol has recovered but has remained in hospital ever since, both for physical therapy and nourishment to regain his strength.