Pope Leo was diagnosed with lung cancer after doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung

Pope Leo, aged 71, was diagnosed with pulmonary adenocarcinoma after the surgery performed on Tuesday at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Doctors removed his lower lobe of the right lung, where a suspicious mass had recently been identified.

According to the medical bulletin issued by the Vatican, the operation lasted approximately 90 minutes and proceeded without complications. To achieve a complete resection, the surgeons used a video-assisted technique.

The histological examination carried out during the procedure confirmed the diagnosis suspected following the preoperative tests: pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. The affected tissue was removed entirely, according to doctors Luigi Carbone and Stefano Margaritora.

The Pope awoke in normal condition and is recovering in his room. The Vatican estimates that he will remain hospitalized for approximately one week under medical supervision. The procedure took place after a pulmonary mass was discovered during a recent medical checkup.