Pope returns to Vatican after lung cancer surgery, with doctors reporting improvement
Return after hospital surgery
Leo left Gemelli University Hospital on Saturday, four days after his operation. Onlookers called out as he departed, and he said he was feeling “much better” when asked about his health.
The surgery removed the lower lobe of his right lung. Doctors confirmed adenocarcinoma, described as the most common form of lung cancer.
Recovery and papal duties
Doctors said tests showed “continued improvement”. Leo is expected to take up some duties again on Sunday, when he greets the faithful with the Catholic Church’s traditional Angelus blessing.
During his hospital stay, he spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, met senior aides and celebrated mass in a makeshift chapel. A Vatican spokesperson said Leo thanked hospital staff for their daily care of sick people and for what they had done for him.
A demanding trip ahead
Leo’s next major engagement is a visit to Latin America in mid-November. The trip is expected to include a dozen flights and two helicopter journeys, leaving him about three weeks to recover.
Key points
- Pope Leo returned to the Vatican on Saturday, four days after lung surgery.
- The operation confirmed adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.
- Doctors reported continued improvement, and Leo is expected to resume some duties on Sunday.
- A Latin America trip involving a dozen flights and two helicopter trips is planned for mid-November.