HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett is scheduled to undergo back surgery Monday in Pittsburgh, his office said.

Corbett’s operation at Allegheny General Hospital is part of his treatment for spinal stenosis. He will spend a day or two in the hospital, but expects to return to Harrisburg by the end of next week, his office said Friday.

While Corbett, 61, is under anesthesia, Lt. Gov. Jim Cawley will serve as acting governor.

Spinal stenosis, most commonly caused by aging, is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can lead to persistent pain and decreased physical activity.

The surgery is being performed by Dr. Mark A. Fye, an orthopedic spinal specialist, and Dr. Patrick J. DeMeo, an orthopedic surgeon. Updates on the operation and Corbett’s condition will be provided at a news briefing following the surgery.

News of the surgery came as debate over the governor’s state budget plan for the fiscal year that starts July 1 is heating up in the Legislature. His proposed spending cuts for higher education and public schools, as well as his opposition to imposing a new tax on the booming natural-gas drilling industry, have drawn criticism from some of his fellow Republicans, who control both the House and Senate.

Corbett decided about a week ago to have the surgery, said his spokesman, Kevin Harley. He underwent a series of tests in preparation for the operation, but is otherwise considered to be in excellent health, the governor’s office said.