U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner recuperating after hip replacement surgery

Jim Sensenbrenner, the dean of Wisconsin's congressional delegation, underwent successful hip replacement surgery Thursday, his office said.

The surgery took place at Mount Vernon Hospital in Alexandria, Virginia.

Sensenbrenner's hip trouble began six years ago when he caught his foot on wires, tripped and fell while attending a community fair in Butler. He sustained a fracture near his elbow and another fracture at the hip socket.

"After a surgical repair at that time, he was able to resume his duties," his office said. "The condition of the hip worsened recently, and doctors recommended a full replacement."

Sensenbrenner, 75, will recuperate and undergo rehab for several weeks, his office said, adding that the congressman "is grateful for all of the well-wishes and prayers and looks forward to being back in commission very soon."

Sensenbrenner, a Menomonee Falls Republican, was first elected to Congress in 1978.