The performer known as Katya Zamolodchikova has posted a reassuring health update after a recent hospital stay. Initially sharing a photo on social media on April 29 that showed a tube in place, she later provided a fuller account of the intervention on May 10. Medical teams determined she needed an emergency abdominal surgery to address a bowel obstruction in her small intestine. During the acute phase she was treated with an NG tube—an nasogastric tube inserted through the nose into the stomach to remove fluids—which remained in place for ten days while she could not eat or drink.
Hospital treatment and what the surgery involved
According to her update, surgeons responded to a blockage that prevented normal intestinal function by decompressing the digestive tract and cleansing the affected areas. The operation included removing a short segment and then reconnecting the bowel, a process often described medically as a resection and anastomosis. The team also performed flushing procedures to clear matter from the intestines and helped relieve pressure in the stomach. Katya later thanked the staff at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles for their work during the emergency, crediting specific physicians and nursing staff for their roles in the procedure and immediate postoperative care.
Experience during the acute phase
While hospitalized, she endured significant discomfort and limited options for nourishment. The NG tube provided continuous suction to prevent buildup while her gut recovered; she described the period as intensely difficult. Katya explained that not being able to eat or drink for an extended stretch, combined with the invasive tubing and postoperative recovery, made the stay particularly trying. Her message emphasized relief at having the tube removed and being able to resume oral intake—milestones that marked a clear shift from critical care to recuperation.
Current condition and public communication
Katya confirmed she is now home and improving: the tube has been taken out, and she is once again able to eat and drink. The performer, who first signaled her hospitalization on April 29, used a second social-media update on May 10 to fill in the medical details and reassure fans. As a public figure with a strong online following—known from RuPaul’s Drag Race seasons including season 7 and All Stars 2—her posts generated many messages of concern and encouragement. The updates balanced candid descriptions of the medical reality with gratitude for clinical care and support.
Gratitude toward medical staff
In her message, Katya singled out the surgical team and bedside caregivers at Cedars-Sinai, naming Dr Matthew Bloom and Dr Sydney Caputo and offering a shout-out to Nurse Audrey for exemplary care. Acknowledging the people who managed her case, she expressed relief and appreciation that the acute crisis had been addressed. Public thanks like this underscore the collaborative nature of emergency surgery and postoperative recovery, and they signal the patient’s trust in the professionals who guided her through a complicated episode.
Impact on shows and next steps
The immediate fallout included a cancelled appearance scheduled for May 9 alongside co-host Trixie Mattel at the Netflix Is a Joke comedy festival; organizers and the performers later indicated the event would be rescheduled. Fans responded across social platforms with wishes for a full recovery, and Katya’s team has emphasized that her focus remains on healing. While recovery timelines vary after abdominal surgeries involving bowel work, the removal of the tube and return to oral intake are positive indicators. She will continue to rest and follow up with her medical providers as she regains strength and prepares to resume performances.