Washington, Feb 12 (DPA) Former US president Bill Clinton was hospitalised for chest 'discomfort' and underwent a procedure to have two stents placed in one of his coronary arteries, a spokesman said.

Clinton was admitted to New York Presbyterian Hospital earlier Thursday and was 'in good spirits' after the operation, according to a statement from Douglas Band, counselor to the former president.

Clinton underwent quadruple bypass surgery in September 2004. He has remained a prominent public figure since leaving office in 2001, most recently serving as the UN' special envoy for Haiti following last month's devastating earthquake.

The former president runs the Clinton Foundation, which focuses on development issues around the globe.

'President Clinton is in good spirits and will continue to focus on the work of his foundation and Haiti's relief and long-term recovery efforts,' Band said.