Pope Leo XIV stable after surgery to remove lung tumor in Rome
Surgeons at Rome's Gemelli hospital removed an adenocarcinoma from the lower lobe of the pope's right lung on October 13. The Holy See Press Office said the operation was a success and that he spent a quiet first night in the hospital
Pope Leo XIV was admitted on Tuesday, October 13, to the Policlinico Gemelli in Rome, where surgeons completely removed an adenocarcinoma from the lower lobe of his right lung. The operation lasted about 90 minutes and was carried out without complications, using a video-assisted technique (VATS).
The medical team was led by Dr. Luigi Carbone, the pope's personal physician, and Dr. Stefano Margaritora, head of thoracic surgery at the Gemelli. The Holy See Press Office said "the operation was completed successfully" and that the pope spent a quiet first night in the hospital.
Prognosis
The pope's brother, Louis Prevost, who is himself being treated for cancer, spoke about the pope's condition in an interview with the American network NewsMax. "What they found was serious, but they managed to remove it completely," Prevost said.
Cardinal Kikuchi, who visited the pope after the operation, said he found him "smiling." He said it was important that Leo XIV had made the situation known himself, to prevent rumors and speculation.
Schedule and recovery
The operation has led the Holy See to reconsider the pope's schedule and his planned trips. The Vatican said he is in stable condition and will remain under medical observation while doctors decide on the next steps in his treatment.
The Holy See thanked the faithful for their prayers and support.
