Vatican: Pope Leo to leave hospital Saturday, four days after lung surgery

Discharge planned for Saturday

The Vatican says Leo will depart in the early afternoon and return to the Vatican. His personal physician and surgeon said he was fit to leave after reviewing blood tests, a Saturday morning chest X-ray and his overall condition.

The 71-year-old underwent surgery four days earlier, with doctors removing the lower lobe of his right lung after finding a suspected cancerous nodule. The operation was described as successful and free of complications.

Recovery and medical details

A medical update said Leo’s recovery had continued to improve. It also said he could carry out his usual daily activities without assistance.

Mass and Sunday blessing

The Vatican released images showing Leo celebrating Mass after the operation. He led the service alone, gave Communion to medical staff and Vatican gendarmes, and delivered a homily, spokesman Matteo Bruni said.

Bruni said Leo thanked hospital workers for their daily care of sick people and for the care they gave him. On Sunday, Leo is scheduled to make his first public appearance since surgery and deliver the traditional noon prayer from a window facing St. Peter’s Square.