From Straight Arrow · · 2m
Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer
Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful lung surgery after cancer diagnosis.
In brief
Pope Leo XIV undergoes successful lung surgery after cancer diagnosis. Pope Leo XIV had successful surgery to remove part of his right lung after doctors confirmed lung adenocarcinoma. Originally reported by Straight Arrow.
Pope Leo XIV diagnosed with cancer
Pope Leo XIV underwent successful surgery Tuesday to remove part of his right lung after doctors confirmed a diagnosis of lung cancer.
Surgery details
The pope spent about three hours in the operating room with the procedure lasting about 90 minutes and completed without complications.
Cancer type confirmed
An examination of tissue during the operation confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, consistent with preoperative testing.
Pope's announcement
The pope announced Sunday during his weekly Angelus that he would undergo surgery to remove a small lung nodule.
Public prayer request
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offered prayers before the procedure and asked people to remember Leo and his care team.
Vatican's statement
The Vatican has no provision for a temporary successor while a pope is under general anesthesia; papal authority remains with the pontiff.
Lung cancer explanation
The Lung Cancer Foundation of America says adenocarcinoma is a subtype of non-small cell lung cancer and the most common form in the United States.
Early detection
Doctors detected the localized nodule at a very early stage and asked the public for prayers.
Recovery timeline
The Vatican expected Leo to remain in the hospital for about a week while recovering.
Vatican cancellation
The Vatican canceled all papal audiences through Oct. 20 to facilitate recovery.
Prognosis
Oncologists noted the prognosis is excellent due to early detection of the cancer.
Doctors involved
Dr. Luigi Carbone and Dr. Stefano Margaritora reported no complications during the operation.
Surgical technique
Surgeons used a video-assisted technique to remove the lobe and ensure a complete procedure.
Pope's age
The 71-year-old Pope will recover at Gemelli Hospital in Rome as his papal apartment undergoes renovations.
Trip status
Pope Leo XIV's planned November trip to South America remains scheduled.
In short
Pope Leo XIV had successful surgery to remove part of his right lung after doctors confirmed lung adenocarcinoma.
