Pope Leo to undergo lung surgery in Rome following nodule detection
Pope Leo XIV, 71, is entering Rome's Gemelli Hospital for surgery to remove an early-stage localized lung nodule, with an expected one-week recovery period.
Pope Leo XIV, 71, is scheduled for admission to Gemelli Hospital in Rome to undergo surgery aimed at removing a lung nodule. Addressing faithful at St. Peter's Square, the pontiff explained that the nodule was identified during a routine medical examination at an "early stage and localized," leading his medical advisers to recommend prompt surgical intervention.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni indicated that the procedure will take place early in the week, with the Pope anticipated to need roughly one week of recovery following the operation. The Catholic Church leader assured pilgrims that doctors are confident in the early diagnosis and planned treatment.
Sources: Aftenposten, DR, Morgunblaðið, NRK, Vísir.
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Earlier coverage
- Oct 16, 2026, 03:00 PM UTCPope Leo XIV shows steady recovery after lung surgery as discharge nears
- Oct 16, 2026, 03:30 AM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery to remove malignant lung tumor
- Oct 14, 2026, 09:30 PM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery for lung tumor in Rome
- Oct 14, 2026, 04:00 PM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery to remove lung tumor
- Oct 14, 2026, 03:00 PM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery to remove lung tumor
- Oct 14, 2026, 09:00 AM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery to remove lung tumor
- Oct 14, 2026, 02:00 AM UTCPope Leo XIV undergoes successful surgery to remove malignant lung tumor
- Oct 13, 2026, 09:00 AM UTCPope Leo to enter hospital ahead of lung surgery
- Oct 13, 2026, 02:30 AM UTCPope Leo to undergo lung surgery after nodule detected