On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV underwent a video‑assisted lobectomy at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove a malignant lower‑lobe mass from his right lung—an operation that lasted roughly 90 minutes and was completed without complications.
Three days later, the Vatican Press Office announced that a chest X‑ray and blood work showed steady improvement, a sign that the body is healing after the 90‑minute operation.
Doctors are continuing respiratory physiotherapy, and the Pope is carrying out daily activities independently, indicating that functional recovery is progressing.
Lung adenocarcinoma, the tumour type confirmed during the surgery, commonly requires careful postoperative monitoring and targeted rehab to regain lung capacity.
For patients recovering from lung surgery, regular imaging, blood tests, and breathing exercises can help detect complications early and restore mobility. Always follow your care team’s advice and schedule follow‑up appointments.