Pope Leo XIV planned surgery to remove lung ‘nodule’ – what to know

Pope Leo XIV has disclosed that he will undergo surgery "in the coming days" following the discovery of a nodule on his lung during a routine medical examination. Addressing his congregation during Sunday prayers in St Peter’s Square in Rome, the 71-year-old pontiff informed the public that his medical team "believe it would be right to intervene" and had agreed to the procedure.

Pope Leo assured the faithful that the mass was "well-contained" and "caught at an early stage". He concluded his Angelus prayer by expressing gratitude for the "spiritual closeness" shown to him and entrusting himself to their prayers. Matteo Bruni, a spokesperson for the Holy See Press Office, stated that the surgery is scheduled for the initial days of next week and the Pope is anticipated to require around a week for recuperation.

Vatican News, the Holy See’s news portal, revealed that the operation will be conducted at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, a facility that established a dedicated Papal suite following the failed assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II in May 1981, a facility that remains in use to this day. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni conveyed her "personal solidarity" to the Pope via a post on X, as he "faces the ordeal ahead in the coming days".

Italian President Sergio Mattarella echoed this sentiment, offering "my sincerest wishes for a peaceful recovery and a speedy and full return to health".