Pope Leo XIV was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, just four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff returned to the Vatican following his recovery from the procedure, marking a significant step in his health journey.
Upon his departure, Pope Leo XIV walked to his waiting vehicle without assistance, briefly greeting well-wishers gathered outside the hospital. When asked about his condition, the pontiff offered a concise but reassuring reply: “I am better, thank you,” before being driven away in a black sports utility vehicle.
His medical team cleared him for release after a thorough review of blood tests and chest imaging scans, which confirmed a positive recovery trajectory post-operation.
Successful Surgery Details Emerge
The surgery, performed on Tuesday, involved the removal of the lower lobe of Pope Leo XIV’s right lung. Doctors had identified a nodule suspected of being cancerous, which was subsequently confirmed as adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer.
Medical professionals described the operation as successful and noted that it was completed without any reported complications. However, specific details regarding the size of the tumor or whether the cancer had metastasized to nearby lymph nodes have not yet been publicly disclosed. These crucial pieces of information are vital for determining a precise long-term prognosis for the pontiff.
Implications for the Papacy
The diagnosis has inevitably sparked discussions and concerns regarding the health of the relatively young and typically energetic pontiff, who was elected to lead the Catholic Church in May 2025. His recovery and long-term health status will undoubtedly have significant implications for the direction and activities of his papacy.
Despite the recent health setback, Pope Leo XIV is anticipated to resume his public duties swiftly. He is scheduled to lead the traditional weekly prayer with pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at noon on Sunday (10:00 a.m. GMT), marking his first public engagement since the surgical procedure and a clear sign of his determined recovery.