Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Surgery as Vatican Confirms Procedure Went as Planned

Pope Leo XIV has successfully undergone surgery to remove a small growth from his lung, with the Vatican confirming that the procedure went according to plan.

The operation took place on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, marking the first major health concern of the Pope’s papacy, which began in May 2025.

According to a statement from the Vatican, the surgery was completed successfully within the expected timeframe. The procedure was performed by a thoracic surgery team led by Professor Stefano Margaritora, the hospital’s chief thoracic surgeon.

The 71-year-old pontiff had announced on Sunday that doctors had discovered a small, localised lung nodule during recent medical examinations. He said the growth had been detected at an early stage and that doctors had recommended its surgical removal.

Although the operation was successful, further medical assessment is expected to establish the nature of the growth and whether additional treatment will be necessary.

The Vatican had indicated that Pope Leo XIV would remain in hospital for approximately one week as he recovers. His public engagements have also been cancelled until October 20 to allow him time to recuperate.

The development has drawn attention from Catholics and other well-wishers around the world, with prayers and messages of support offered for the Pope’s recovery.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, United States, was elected head of the Catholic Church in May 2025. Before his election, he spent several decades serving as a missionary and bishop in Peru.

The Vatican has not indicated that the successful operation guarantees a particular diagnosis or rules out further treatment. Medical findings following the procedure will be important in determining the next steps in his recovery.

For now, the confirmation that the surgery went as planned provides encouraging news for the Catholic faithful as they await further updates on the Pope’s health.

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