SHORT TAKES : Pearl Bailey Well After Surgery

Pearl Bailey is feeling well after surgery for replacement of an arthritic left knee, her surgeon said.

The 72-year-old singer and actress received a metal-and-plastic joint Wednesday at Pennsylvania Hospital in her native Philadelphia.

Bailey will remain in the hospital for about two weeks and undergo therapy and exercises for up to two months at home in Arizona, said Dr. Richard Rothman.

Rothman said Bailey was awake for most of the 55-minute operation, which he said was “a great success. She is feeling well.”

Bailey played the lead in “Hello Dolly” on Broadway and starred in such movies as “Carmen Jones” and “Porgy and Bess.” She is also known for such classic songs as “Bill Bailey, Won’t You Come Home” and “St. Louis Blues.”