text: WASHINGTON -- U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson Wednesday underwent his second back surgery in less than a month, according to his staff.
  Isakson's office said the operation, to repair a recently-developed sacral hairline stress fracture in his lower spine, was successful and that the third-term senator is now recovering at Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta.
  The 72-year-old had this to say in a statement:
  "This second procedure will help shore up the reconstruction of my lower spine and will help prevent a minor fracture from becoming a bigger problem. I am working closely with my doctors and physical therapists to ensure that my recovery ultimately leads to a long road of wellness. I look forward to returning to Washington as soon as possible with a new and improved back to continue working on behalf of Georgians."
  A spokeswoman said it is still unclear when Isakson will be able to return to work in Washington but that he is expected to be released from the hospital in the days ahead.
  "It's week-by-week thing at this point," the spokeswoman said.
  The surgery was deemed necessary as Isakson recovered from an initial operation at Emory last month to address spinal deterioration, or a severe case of arthritis. The surgery is unrelated to Isakson's Parkinson's disease, his doctor Keith Osborn said in a recent interview.