The Duke of Windsor undergoes an abdominal operation in Houston, Texas, and the 70-year-old former King of England comes through with flying colors as his Duchess stands by. The Duchess is the American for whom the Duke gave up his throne 38 years ago. Houston's Methodist Hospital. The Duke of Windsor and his bride Wallis Warfield Simpson arriving at Houston's Methodist Hospital where the Duke has to undergo abdominal surgery. Wallis Simpson and the Duke. The Duke has a balloon like blister on his aorta in the lower part of his abdomen, part of this artery has to be removed and a 4 inch plastic tube inserted. The Duke and the Duchess seem to be in high spirit in spite of the needed operation. News media and their cameras. The Duke of Windsor.