Pope Leo Has Cancerous Growth Removed in Lung Operation
The Vatican said the 90-minute operation removed the lower lobe of his right lung and had no complications.
- On Tuesday, Pope Leo XIV underwent successful surgery at Rome's Agostino Gemelli University Hospital, where the Vatican confirmed doctors removed a cancerous lung nodule identified as lung adenocarcinoma.
- The 71-year-old pontiff announced Sunday that doctors discovered the nodule in "a very initial phase" and deemed it "well localized," with physicians recommending intervention to prevent complications.
- Led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, the thoracic surgery lasted approximately 90 minutes and successfully removed the lower lobe of the Pope's right lung without complications.
- Following the procedure, the Vatican announced the Pope has returned to his room and will remain hospitalized for approximately a week, with all public engagements canceled through October 20.
- Further medical assessments will determine if additional treatment is necessary for the adenocarcinoma diagnosis, while Cardinal Baldassare Reina led prayers for the Chicago native's recovery.
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The nodule that the pope was removed during a 90-minute surgery Tuesday, October 13 at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome was cancerous, requiring the removal of the "lower lobe of the right lung," said the Vatican.
Pope Leo has cancerous growth removed in lung operation
Pope Leo XIV had a cancerous growth removed from his right lung in a 90-minute operation on Tuesday and "woke up normally" after the procedure, the Vatican said. A Vatican source said further tests were…
Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery for lung cancer
ROME, Italy, Oct. 13, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Pope Leo XIV has undergone surgery on the lower lobe of his right lung after he was diagnosed with lung cancer, a statement from the Vatican press office says. Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora issued the following statement regarding this afternoon’s operation: “The Holy Father […] The post Pope Leo XIV undergoes surgery for lung cancer first appeared on Gephardt Daily.
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