Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV recently underwent a medical procedure to remove a small nodule from his lung at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome, as reported by the Vatican. The 71-year-old pontiff had thoracic surgery to excise the lower lobe of his right lung, following a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer, confirmed through a tissue examination during the operation. This diagnosis was consistent with earlier preoperative tests.

The surgery lasted about 90 minutes out of approximately three hours in the operating room. Doctors reported the procedure as successful without any complications. After the surgery, Leo awoke normally and, following a brief period of observation, returned to his hospital room on the 10th floor, as stated by Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora.

Before the surgery, Pope Leo XIV addressed a crowd at St. Peter’s Square, mentioning, “Doctors found a small lump in the lung, identified at a very early stage and well situated.” He added, “Following their advice, I decided to undergo surgery to remove it. The surgery is already scheduled for the next few days. I rely on your prayer.” The surgery utilized a video-assisted technique for the removal.

This development was unexpected for the American-born pope with no prior known health issues. He is recognized for maintaining an active lifestyle, frequently playing tennis and swimming at Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer retreat. The pope is also scheduled for an international trip between November 6 and 17, with stops in Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, though it is not clear if the recent surgery will impact these plans.

In addition to discussing his health, Pope Leo XIV used his Sunday address to emphasize the need for peace in Ukraine. He remarked on the broader suffering caused by the ongoing conflict, particularly affecting poorer nations reliant on cereal and grain exports from Ukraine.