Pope Leo XIV’s Surgery and Recovery: Insights from the Surgeon

The recent operation on Pope Leo XIV caught the public’s attention when Dr. Stefano Margaritora, the surgeon responsible for the procedure, gave insightful details in an interview with Vatican News. He outlined the discovery, the surgery, and the importance of preventive measures.

Discovery of the Cancer

Pope Leo XIV’s lung cancer was found by chance, according to Dr. Margaritora, the director of thoracic surgery at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital Foundation. The tumor, discovered at the base of the right lung, had no symptoms and could have remained unnoticed if located slightly higher. Dr. Margaritora emphasized that many early-stage cancers, like the pope’s, often show no symptoms, highlighting the need for regular preventive checkups.

The Surgical Procedure

Dr. Margaritora described the surgery as routine and without complications. During this procedure, the pope was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of cancer. The pontiff behaved as an ideal patient throughout his four-day recovery at Gemelli Hospital, actively engaging with the hospital chapel and even arranging chairs during his stay.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Activity

Pope Leo XIV was discharged to a cheering crowd four days after his surgery. He resumed some work on Thursday and spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone by Friday. The Vatican released images of the pope conducting Mass in the hospital chapel and meeting with key Church figures like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Cardinal Baldassare Reina.

Upcoming Travels

The pope has plans to visit Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6-17, resuming his active schedule despite the recent health scare.