Pope Leo XIV to Undergo Lung Surgery After Vatican Announcement
Wertynews.com – Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery after doctors found a nodular lesion in one of his lungs, the Vatican said. The 71-year-old pontiff told followers during his Sunday noon blessing that the finding appeared early and localized, and that his medical team recommended removing it.
He said he accepted the advice of his doctors and will have an operation in the coming days. The Vatican expects his recovery to last about a week, although it has not released further details about the procedure.
“The doctors believe it’s best to take action, so, following their advice, I’ve decided to have surgery to remove it,” Leo said.
The pope thanked people for their support and asked them to pray for him as he prepares for treatment. He did not describe any symptoms in his public remarks.
Hospital Stay Expected in Rome
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni said Pope Leo XIV is expected to be admitted early in the week, without giving a specific date. The treatment is expected to take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, which has facilities prepared for papal care, including a dedicated apartment for the pontiff.
The Vatican has described the lesion as “circumscribed,” indicating that it is limited to a defined area. Officials have not said when the pope will return to his complete public schedule following the operation.
For now, the planned short recovery period offers some reassurance, but decisions about upcoming events will depend on his condition after surgery and future Vatican updates.
Planned South American Visit Remains Uncertain
Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery at a time when he is also preparing for a Nov. 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. The visit would include international travel, public appearances and meetings across three countries.
Before disclosing his medical situation, Leo said he still planned to make the journey. It remains unclear whether the operation or recovery will affect the itinerary, and the Vatican is expected to provide further guidance.
The pope, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, has not previously been known to have major health problems. He has maintained an active routine that includes weekly tennis matches and swimming during stays at the papal summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo.
Papal Health Draws Global Attention
The announcement has renewed attention on the physical demands of the papacy, which include liturgies, meetings, travel and frequent appearances before large crowds. Even a brief absence can affect Vatican scheduling and prompt concern among Catholics worldwide.
Leo’s situation differs from the serious health challenges faced by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025, after suffering a stroke following a prolonged hospitalization. Francis had chronic lung disease and had part of a lung removed when he was young.
In contrast, the Vatican has said Leo’s lesion was detected early and is contained. Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery is therefore a significant medical development, but officials have described the anticipated recovery as relatively brief.
FAQ: Pope Leo XIV’s Surgery in Rome
When will Pope Leo XIV have surgery?
The Vatican said he is expected to be admitted during the early part of the week, but it has not announced a specific surgery date.
Where will the pope receive treatment?
The procedure is expected to take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, which has long been equipped to care for a pope.
How long is Pope Leo expected to recover?
The Vatican has estimated a recovery period of about one week, though his return to a full public schedule will depend on his progress after the operation.
Will the South American trip still happen?
No changes have been confirmed. The pope had said he intended to make the Nov. 6-17 visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, but the Vatican may revise plans after his recovery is assessed.