Governor undergoes hip surgery in Vegas; Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt is acting governor while Guinn recuperates

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Nevada Gov. Kenny Guinn underwent hip replacement surgery Tuesday, and was described as resting comfortably after the operation that had been planned for several weeks.

Guinn, 69, underwent the surgery at Spring Valley Medical Center to correct a degenerative problem with his right hip, press secretary Steve George said.

"Kenny came through the surgery beautifully," Nevada first lady Dema Guinn said in a statement issued through the governor's office. "Hopefully he will be able to be up and around soon without the pain he was feeling before the operation."

Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt filled in for Guinn as acting governor. Guinn planned to resume official duties by Wednesday, said George, who added that the operation was needed as a result of "cumulative" wear and tear on the hip over the years.

Guinn was a star athlete in several sports in high school and played football for the University of Southern California and for Fresno State University.

Dr. Todd Swanson performed the surgery, which took less than two hours with no complications, according to hospital spokeswoman Naomi Jones. Swanson developed the state-of-the-art procedure used to replace the governor's hip.

Guinn was expected to remain hospitalized until Thursday or Friday, and spend several weeks recuperating.

The Republican governor planned to restrict his travel and appearance schedule through April, but planned to perform his gubernatorial duties throughout his recovery and rehabilitation.

Guinn, who was elected Nevada governor in 1998, is in the final year of his second term. He is prevented by term limits from seeking a third term.

He had successful prostate cancer surgery in 2002.