Dee Snider to undergo throat surgery

NEW YORK, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Twisted Sister singer Dee Snider has been told he must undergo throat surgery, which means a slew of cancellations for the New York-based metal band.

Among the appearances being shelved is the March Atarfe Vega Rock festival in Spain, Roadrunner Records said on its Web site.

Snider said his surgery is scheduled for March 1 and doctors predict an eight-week recovery period.

There was no reason given for the surgery other than that it was scheduled after tests by a specialist after Snider lost his voice at an appearance last month.

"I hate canceling shows and disappointing fans for any reason, but I have been advised that this surgery should not wait," he said. "My VH1 and 'House of Hair' (radio) shows will be taped, but some live performance events will have to be rescheduled."

Snider said the band's summer tour plans should not be affected.