Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican after being discharged from a hospital in Rome, four days after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung.
The 71-year-old pontiff was released from Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, October 17, after doctors assessed his blood tests, chest X-ray and overall clinical condition.
According to the Vatican, the operation was successful and was completed without complications.
Doctors removed the lower lobe of the Pope’s right lung during surgery on Tuesday. Medical tests confirmed that he has lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.
Although his recovery has progressed well, further medical findings are still needed to determine whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes and whether additional treatment will be required.
During his hospital stay, Pope Leo continued some of his duties, including a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin concerning the humanitarian situation in Ukraine.
The pontiff is expected to lead the traditional Angelus prayer from the window of his Vatican apartment on Sunday, October 18, marking his first scheduled public engagement since the operation.
His planned pastoral visit to South America in November remains subject to his recovery and medical condition.
The Pope’s discharge marks an important step in his recovery, although questions remain about his long-term treatment and how his health may affect his future schedule.
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