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Pope Leo returns to Vatican after lung cancer operation
Pope Leo XIV left Rome’s Gemelli hospital Saturday, four days after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung. Doctors say he is recovering well, but tests are still needed to determine whether he will require further treatment.
Pope Leo XIV returned to the Vatican on Saturday after leaving Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, where he underwent surgery for lung cancer on Tuesday. Dozens of well-wishers gathered outside the hospital as the 71-year-old pontiff walked to a waiting vehicle.
Asked how he felt, Leo replied, “I am much better, thank you.” He also greeted patients inside the hospital alongside his surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora.
Before his departure, a 13-year-old Ukrainian girl gave the pope a handmade papal doll. She told reporters that an earlier meeting with Leo had given her strength during her own cancer treatment.
Surgeons removed the lower lobe of Leo’s right lung. The procedure confirmed adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Medical updates have described his recovery as progressing well, and said he has been able to carry out ordinary daily activities independently.
During his hospital stay, Leo met with senior aides, celebrated Mass in a hospital chapel and spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Vatican had initially expected him to remain hospitalized for about a week and canceled his public audiences through Tuesday.
The pope is expected to give the traditional Angelus blessing Sunday. His next major scheduled commitment is a Latin America trip from Nov. 6 to 17, which would involve a dozen flights and two helicopter trips. Doctors are awaiting further test results to determine the cancer’s molecular and genetic characteristics, whether it spread beyond the removed lung lobe and whether additional treatment is needed.