Pope Leo XIV has undergone surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer. The operation, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, was performed on Tuesday by medical professionals at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital.
The Vatican released a statement confirming that the procedure was conducted using a video-assisted technique to excise the affected portion of the lung. The diagnosis was verified during surgery through intraoperative histological examination, corroborating preoperative test results that indicated the presence of lung adenocarcinoma.
Swift Medical Response and Recovery
At 71 years old, Robert Francis Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV, is now recovering in the hospital. The Vatican noted that the operation proceeded as planned and that the pontiff is expected to remain hospitalized for at least one week. The announcement of the surgery came swiftly after the detection of the lung nodule, with the pope himself informing the public on Sunday of his impending operation.
Medical teams responded promptly to the diagnosis, emphasizing a rapid course of action to address the condition. While currently focusing on recovery, Pope Leo XIV aims to return to his usual schedule as soon as possible following the successful surgery.