Pope Leo XIV is recovering after undergoing successful lung surgery in Rome, where doctors confirmed that he has lung adenocarcinoma, a common type of lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff underwent the procedure at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
According to the Vatican, the operation lasted approximately 90 minutes and ended without complications. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung after identifying a suspicious growth during routine medical examinations. The diagnosis was confirmed through tissue testing during surgery.
Pope Leo XIV’s Condition After Surgery
Following the procedure, Pope Leo woke up normally and returned to his hospital room on the facility’s 10th floor. Vatican officials reported that he was recovering well after the operation.
The pontiff is expected to remain at Gemelli Hospital for approximately one week. Doctors will continue monitoring his condition and reviewing further test results.
Although the growth was detected during recent medical examinations, the Vatican has not disclosed a complete cancer staging assessment or a detailed prognosis. Therefore, further information is needed to establish the full extent of the disease.
Doctors Remove Lower Right Lung Lobe
Professor Stefano Margaritora, who leads the hospital’s thoracic surgery team, oversaw the operation. Doctors used a video-assisted surgical technique to remove the affected section of the lung.
The procedure aimed to remove the suspicious tissue. However, the long-term outlook will depend on further medical assessments and the results of additional tests.
As of the latest reports, doctors have not announced a chemotherapy plan. Any decision about further treatment will depend on the medical team’s assessment.
Vatican Cancels Pope’s Public Engagements
The Vatican has cancelled Pope Leo XIV’s public engagements through October 20, 2026, to allow him time to recover.
News of the diagnosis has drawn attention from Catholics and observers worldwide. Many will be watching for further updates from the Vatican as the pontiff continues his recovery.
For now, the immediate priority remains his recovery from surgery and the medical team’s ongoing evaluation of his condition.
