Pope Leo undergoes surgery to remove lung nodule at Rome's Gemelli hospital
Leo revealed on Sunday that doctors discovered the nodule and recommended its removal. The Vatican says he will be hospitalized for at least a week, with all audiences canceled until October 20.
Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery on Tuesday at Rome's Gemelli hospital to remove a lung nodule. The 71-year-old American pontiff revealed on Sunday that the growth had been detected at an early, well-contained stage. The Korea Times reports that the operation, led by chief thoracic surgeon Dr. Stefano Margaritora, is intended to determine if the lesion is malignant and if further treatment is required.
During his arrival at the hospital, cardinals noted the Pope appeared calm and in good spirits. According to The Korea Times, Leo walked through the main entrance and waved to well-wishers. As the surgery began Tuesday evening, medical staff recited the Rosary in the hospital chapel.
The Vatican stated that the Pope will be hospitalized for at least a week and has canceled all audiences and public events until October 20. This marks the first major health issue and first hospital stay during his 17-month papacy.
Brief written by urgent.news from PBS NewsHour, The Korea Times, CBS News, Egypt Independent, Le Monde English — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- The pope-frequented hospital where Leo will have surgery freemalaysiatoday.com
- Pope Leo in Rome hospital for lung surgery dw.com