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Surgery on Pope Leo's lung nodule went well, Vatican says

Doctors said the growth was found during routine checks and that the pope is expected to stay in hospital for about a week.

  • On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV underwent successful thoracic surgery at Rome's Gemelli Hospital to remove a lung nodule. The Vatican confirmed removal of the right lung's lower lobe, diagnosing lung adenocarcinoma.
  • Doctors discovered the small, localized nodule during routine health checks, prompting the scheduled procedure. On Sunday, Leo announced the diagnosis during Angelus prayers, marking rare Vatican transparency about papal health.
  • Chief thoracic surgeon Dr. Stefano Margaritora led the medical team using robotic technology at Gemelli Hospital. The minimally invasive da Vinci technique involved four small chest incisions, reducing trauma and supporting swift recovery.
  • The Vatican cancelled all public audiences through October 20 to accommodate Leo's expected weeklong hospital recovery. Officials emphasized that Vatican administration continues as usual while the pontiff recuperates from surgery.
  • Recovery is critical for Leo's planned 11-day tour of Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6–17. The ambitious itinerary covers over 31,000 kilometers, marking the longest international trip of his papacy.
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Pope Leo XIV has undergone successful surgery at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where a nodule located in his lung was removed, the Holy See Press Office announced. “The operation was completed successfully, within the expected time and according to plan, and the Holy Father has returned to his room. Further information will be published later,” the Vatican statement said. The Pope arrived at the hospital today through the main entrance and shook…

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Helena Independent RecordHelena Independent Record
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Center

Pope Leo had lobe of lung removed as doctors found cancer

Pope Leo had a lower lobe of his right lung removed during surgery Tuesday and was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, the Vatican said in a medical bulletin.

·Helena, United States
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France24 broke the news in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France on Monday, October 12, 2026.
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