Richardson making progress after operation

Former Labor senator Graham Richardson is breathing unassisted and responding intelligibly as he recovers from massive surgery to remove four organs.

The 66-year-old political commentator underwent the marathon 18-hour procedure on Wednesday to remove his bowel, bladder, prostate, rectum and sciatic nerve as part of treatment for cancer.

Sky television co-presenter Alan Jones said doctors were happy with his progress.

"Cautious optimism I think's the best way to describe it," Jones told 2GB listeners on Friday.

Richardson, a former Keating and Hawke government minister, was conscious, breathing on his own and talking comprehensibly but slowly, having been under the influence of sedatives.

He was able to respond correctly when asked the names of his wife and son.

"Richo was then asked the name of the prime minister," Jones said.

"I think he thought he might have choked if he said that, but he responded with a smile."