The Vatican reported that Pope Leo XIV spent a calm evening recovering in the hospital following a successful medical procedure to remove part of his right lung. The 71-year-old American pontiff underwent the operation after receiving a confirmed diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, a prevalent form of non-small cell lung cancer.
Surgical Details and Medical Team at Gemelli Hospital
The operation took place at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where the pontiff had arrived earlier after waving to crowds outside. According to Vatican statements, the 90-minute surgical intervention to remove a malignant lung nodule proceeded precisely on schedule and as planned, although the pope remained in the operating theater for nearly three hours total.
Dr. Stefano Margaritora, who serves as Gemelli’s chief thoracic surgeon, led the medical procedure. As the operation commenced, medical staff gathered in the hospital chapel to recite the rosary. Surgeons utilized a video-assisted technique to successfully remove the lower lobe of the pope’s right lung.
Post-Operative Recovery and Room Arrangements
Following the conclusion of the surgery, the pontiff woke up normally. After a brief observation period, he was transferred to his room located on the tenth floor of the facility. This temporary accommodation sits adjacent to the standard papal apartment, which features a private chapel and is currently undergoing renovations.
The medical team and Vatican officials have not yet released details regarding subsequent treatment plans or whether the malignancy has spread. The initial lump was discovered during a routine medical examination. In a rare move for the papacy, the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics publicly disclosed his health condition during his Sunday noon prayer.
Global Reactions and Potential Scheduling Impacts
International figures and religious leaders quickly shared messages of support following the announcement. Archbishop Ronald Hicks of New York City issued a statement expressing gratitude for the successful procedure and wishing the pope a steady recuperation. United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared prayers for the pontiff on social media, while German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the global importance of the pope’s voice on contemporary issues.
The health development arrives during a busy period for the pontificate. Weeks prior, Pope Leo addressed crowds in Paris during an outdoor mass where he cautioned against the risks associated with artificial intelligence. While a historic two-week journey to South America was previously scheduled for next month, Vatican officials have not yet confirmed if the trip will proceed as planned given the ongoing recovery period.