Pope Leo XIV is recovering in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after undergoing surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. According to the Vatican, the procedure was successful with no complications. During the operation, doctors confirmed the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. All of the pope’s public audiences have been cancelled through October 20, 2026.
Pope Resting in Hospital Following Surgery
Leo XIV underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 13, at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. The Vatican reported that the operation took about 90 minutes, with the pope remaining in the operating room for roughly three hours overall.
After the procedure, he awoke without any unusual complications and was transported back to his room. On October 14, the Vatican stated that the pope had a calm first night in hospital.
Diagnosis Confirmed During Surgery
The Vatican said that examination of tissue removed during surgery confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, a type of malignant tumor that develops in glandular epithelial cells.
At this time, no details have been provided regarding further treatment. It is therefore not yet clear what specific care the pope will require following his release from hospital.
Audiences Cancelled, Future Schedule Depends on Recovery
The Vatican has cancelled all of the pope’s public audiences until Tuesday, October 20. This measure is intended to allow sufficient time for post-surgery recovery and ongoing medical care.
Leo XIV is scheduled for an apostolic visit to Latin America in November. Whether that trip or other planned events will proceed will depend on follow-up medical evaluations and doctors’ recommendations.
The Vatican has committed to providing additional updates on the pope’s condition. The coming days will clarify the progress of his recovery and when he may be able to resume his public duties.
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This article was translated from the original Slovak version with the assistance of AI.
