Pope Leo XIV Recuperates Post-Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV underwent medical evaluations, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, following thoracic surgery to remove a small nodule on his right lung. The Vatican has announced that his recovery is progressing as predicted.

The Holy See Press Office reported a peaceful night for the pope at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, indicating his postoperative recovery is on track. The pontiff, age 71, underwent surgery on Tuesday, where doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung and confirmed he had lung adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer.

Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora stated that blood tests and X-ray results show typical recovery patterns. Pope Leo XIV is engaging in respiratory physiotherapy and has resumed walking in his room. His dietary habits returned to normal with breakfast and lunch, as noted in their statement. The diagnosis was confirmed during tissue examination during the procedure, consistent with preoperative assessments.

The operation at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic lasted roughly three hours, with the surgery itself taking about 90 minutes. Doctors reported no complications, marking the procedure as successful. Pope Leo XIV addressed attendees at St. Peter’s Square earlier, explaining that the cancerous growth was identified early in an ideal location.

Upon recommendations from his medical team, the Pope opted for surgical intervention and expressed gratitude for the spiritual support and prayers from the community.

An image capturing Pope Leo XIV at the base of a statue of Pope John Paul II symbolizes his journey at the hospital where the operation took place. The pontiff was welcomed by Health Director Andrea Cambieri upon his arrival for surgery.