The 71-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, after tissue examined during the operation confirmed suspicions raised by preoperative medical tests.

According to a medical bulletin released by the Vatican on Tuesday, October 13, the surgery was successful and was completed without complications.

The operation itself lasted approximately 90 minutes, although the Pope spent about three hours in the operating room. Doctors used a video-assisted surgical technique to remove the affected portion of his right lung.

The Vatican said the Pope regained consciousness normally following the procedure and returned to his hospital room for observation. 

Diagnosis Confirmed During Surgery

The diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma had been suspected before the operation but was confirmed through an examination of the tissue during surgery.

Lung adenocarcinoma is a type of non-small cell lung cancer that develops in glandular cells in the lung. It is the most common subtype of lung cancer.

The Vatican has not disclosed the precise stage of the Pope’s cancer, whether it has spread beyond the affected area or whether he will require additional treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Medical specialists say decisions about further treatment generally depend on the tumour’s characteristics, whether cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes and the results of additional tests.

Pope Had Announced Lung Nodule

The surgery followed an announcement by Pope Leo on Sunday, October 11, that doctors had discovered a small, localised nodule in his lung during recent medical examinations.

At the time, the Pope said the abnormality had been detected at an early stage and that his doctors had recommended surgery to remove it.

He subsequently informed worshippers that the operation had been scheduled for the coming days and thanked them for their prayers and support.

The Vatican later confirmed that the procedure had taken place at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Tuesday.

Public Engagements Cancelled

Following the operation, the Vatican cancelled the Pope’s public audiences through October 20 to allow him time to recover.

He is expected to remain under medical observation while doctors assess his condition and determine the next steps in his treatment.

Although the successful operation is an encouraging development, the Vatican has not provided a detailed prognosis or confirmed when the pontiff will resume his full public schedule.

International Attention on the Pope’s Health

The diagnosis has drawn international attention because of the Pope’s position as leader of the Roman Catholic Church and head of the Vatican.

News of his surgery has prompted prayers and messages of support from Catholics and other well-wishers around the world.

For now, the Vatican has confirmed the cancer diagnosis and successful removal of the affected lung lobe, while further information about the Pope’s recovery and possible additional treatment remains pending.

Photo courtesy: Pope Leo