Pope Leo XIV has undergone successful surgery to remove a lump from his lung, the Vatican has confirmed, offering reassurance to Catholics and supporters around the world.
The 71-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Tuesday after doctors detected a lung nodule during what the Vatican described as routine medical checks.
In a statement following the operation, the Vatican said the procedure had been completed successfully and that the Pope had returned to his hospital room.
“The operation concluded successfully, on time and as expected, and the Holy Father returned to his room,” the statement said.
The surgery was performed by the hospital’s thoracic surgery team after the Pope announced on Sunday that doctors had discovered a growth in his lung.
Speaking from the balcony overlooking St Peter’s Square, the pontiff said the nodule had been detected at an early stage and was contained, but doctors had recommended its removal.
The Vatican had previously indicated that the Pope showed no symptoms of infection or illness.
Lung nodules are relatively common and are not necessarily cancerous. However, removed tissue is generally examined to determine whether abnormal cells are present.
Ahead of the operation, crowds gathered outside Gemelli Hospital to offer prayers and encouragement to the pontiff as he arrived for treatment. He responded to well-wishers by smiling and waving from his car.
The development has raised concern among Catholics, although senior Church officials have expressed confidence in his recovery.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin described the news as unexpected but said the cardinals had been encouraged by the Pope’s calmness.
Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo also disclosed that he had met the pontiff on Monday and said Leo had reported feeling physically well before the procedure.
The Pope reportedly opted to undergo surgery promptly because of a planned visit to Latin America in early November. The trip is expected to include Peru, where he spent many years as a missionary and bishop.
His schedule has been cleared until October 20 to allow time for recovery.
The operation marks a significant health development for the pontiff, whose condition is being closely followed by Catholics and the wider international community.
