Pope Leo needs no further treatment after lung surgery

Pope Leo XIV needs no further treatment after surgery to remove a lung nodule, his doctors said Wednesday, citing final tests that confirmed a localized pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

“The results have confirmed that the condition was a pulmonary adenocarcinoma and that the disease was localized,” Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora said in a statement released by the Vatican. “A subsequent oncological evaluation has confirmed that no further therapy is required.”

The 71-year-old pontiff underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after routine medical tests found the nodule. Leo said it had been detected “at a very early stage.” According to the BBC, the Oct. 13 operation lasted 90 minutes and included removal of the lower lobe of his right lung.

Leo left the hospital Saturday, four days after the operation, and greeted well-wishers outside. He resumed public duties Sunday, delivering his traditional noon prayer from a window at the Vatican. He thanked those who had prayed for him and the hospital staff who cared for him.

“This experience has made me feel particularly close to all those who are experiencing illness and a condition of frailty,” he said. Leo added that he would gradually resume his activities, “always with God’s help and your prayers.”

On Wednesday, Leo held his first weekly general audience since leaving the hospital, gathering with the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. He is continuing his recovery at the Vatican.

His diagnosis and surgery have raised questions about a planned trip to South America in early November. NBC News reported that Leo remains scheduled to depart Nov. 6 for a 12-day journey to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru. The itinerary covers 19,000 miles, with multiple flights and two helicopter rides. It includes a stop in Cuzco, in the Peruvian Andes, at an elevation of about 11,000 feet.

Peru has particular significance for Leo: He previously served as bishop of Chiclayo and holds Peruvian citizenship. Those close to him have said he is keen not to delay the trip, according to the BBC.

Prof. Stefano Margaritora told Vatican News on Saturday that recovery from this type of surgery typically takes a couple of weeks. Asked about a long trip involving air travel roughly three weeks after the operation, he said, “I would say there are no clinical reasons why it should not take place.”