Pope Leo XIV diagnosed with lung cancer after surgery and is recovering at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. The Pope Leo XIV lung surgery removed the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinoma, with the Vatican medical update reporting no complications.
Pope Leo XIV lung surgery
Pope Leo XIV is recovering after undergoing thoracic surgery at Rome's Agostino Gemelli University Hospital, where doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung. The Vatican said the procedure was completed successfully and without complications.
The operation itself lasted about 90 minutes, although the 71-year-old pontiff spent roughly three hours in the operating room. Doctors used a video-assisted surgical technique designed to remove the affected lung tissue. Leo woke normally after the operation and returned to his room following a short observation period.
Pulmonary adenocarcinoma diagnosis
An examination of tissue during surgery confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer that doctors had suspected following earlier tests. The Vatican said additional examinations of the removed tissue would take place after the procedure.
Before entering hospital, Pope Leo told worshippers that doctors had discovered a localized lung nodule during recent medical examinations. He said the abnormality had been found at a very early point and was well localized, prompting doctors to recommend surgery.
While that early detection is encouraging, the Vatican has not yet announced a final cancer stage or detailed any further lung cancer treatment. Those decisions will depend on postoperative medical findings.
Gemelli Hospital recovery
The Pope is expected to remain at Gemelli Hospital for about a week. The Holy See Press Office said there had been no change to the previously announced hospital stay following the successful operation.
Gemelli has a long history of treating pontiffs and has dedicated facilities for papal patients. Pope Leo's admission represents his first publicly reported hospital stay since becoming pontiff.
Vatican medical update
Doctors Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora provided details of the procedure through the Holy See Press Office. The Vatican said Leo was conscious after surgery and recovering normally in his hospital room. Further medical updates are expected as doctors examine the removed tissue and monitor his condition.
The update offers reassurance following concern among Catholics worldwide, while also leaving important questions about long-term follow-up and any additional treatment unanswered.
Papal engagements cancelled
The Vatican has cancelled Pope Leo XIV's audiences through October 20 while he recovers. The decision covers public and private engagements that would normally form part of his weekly schedule.
