Princess of Wales undergoes abdominal surgery and will remain in hospital for up to 14 days

The Prince of Wales has cancelled forthcoming royal duties to be with his wife at The London Clinic

The Princess of Wales is in hospital after undergoing successful abdominal surgery, Kensington Palace has announced.

Kate, 42, was admitted to The London Clinic on Tuesday for the planned procedure, which is said to be a routine one.

It came as Buckingham Palace revealed that King Charles will undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty’s condition was described as “benign” and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure followed by a period of recuperation.

Kate’s operation, which took place on Tuesday, was deemed a success by doctors. The future queen is now expected to remain in hospital for ten to 14 days before returning to recover at Windsor until at least Easter, based on medical advice.

The palace refused to confirm what Kate was being treated for but confirmed the condition was non-cancerous.

The Prince of Wales has cancelled an upcoming trip to Rome to be at his wife’s side. He won’t undertake official duties while Kate is in hospital or immediately following her return home.

“Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” a statement said.

Kate hopes the public will understand her ‘desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible’ (PA)

A spokesperson for Kensington Palace said: “The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate.

“She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.

“Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness’s progress when there is significant new information to share.

“The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements.

“She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible.”

The princess is not expected to return to public duties until after Easter based on current medical advice, the Palace said.

Heir to the throne William will combine being at Kate’s side with caring for their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and he has postponed a number of engagements.

The London Clinic, where she reportedly had the surgery in Marylebone, central London, has treated royals including Prince Philip and Princess Margaret as well as actress Elizabeth Taylor and John F Kennedy.