The office of state Sen. Sam Slom announced Monday that, “based on tests performed following his hospitalization last week, physicians have recommended that he undergo coronary bypass surgery.”

Slom, who turns 74 on Wednesday, has chosen to have the surgery later this week “to ensure his rapid recovery and return to Senate duties at the earliest possible date.”

“Although I would prefer to be present at this coming Tuesday’s floor session, my doctors assure me that having this routine surgery at the earliest date ensures my ability to be present for the final vote in the best of health,” Slom said in a statement.

Slom has represented Hawaii’s 9th senatorial district since 1996 and is currently the only Republican in the 25-member Senate.

Former Honolulu City Council member and failed candidate for Congress Stanley Chang has filed to run for the District 9 seat, which stretches from Hawaii Kai to Diamond Head.