Pope Leo XIV Has Lower Lobe of Right Lung Removed

The Vatican confirmed on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, that Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after tests confirmed a cancer diagnosis. The operation, performed at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, confirmed the presence of lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer.

Surgery Details and Medical Statement

The 71-year-old pope was in the operating room for about three hours, with the surgery itself lasting approximately 90 minutes. According to a Vatican medical bulletin released after the procedure, the “radical” removal of the lobe was aimed at excising all suspect tissue to eliminate any lingering traces of the cancer. The statement reported that the surgery was successful and free of complications.

Diagnosis and Preoperative Findings

The confirmation of lung cancer came after preoperative tests had already pointed to this possibility. The particular cancer identified, lung adenocarcinoma, is a form of early stage cancer that doctors had suspected based on initial screenings. The Vatican noted that the medical team was not currently discussing additional treatments such as chemotherapy.

Transparency and Public Disclosure

Pope Leo XIV offered a transparent account of his health, publicly revealing the discovery of the small, localized lung nodule during his Sunday noon prayer. He also announced his intent to have the nodule removed. This level of disclosure marks a rare openness regarding the first major health issue of his 17-month papacy.

Surgical Team and Hospital Details

The surgery was led by Dr. Stefano Margaritora, chief thoracic surgeon at Gemelli hospital. Pope Leo XIV arrived at the hospital earlier in the day through the main entrance, greeting dozens of well-wishers who had gathered outside. Medical Director Andrea Cambieri was also present to greet the pontiff ahead of the procedure.

Prognosis Following Surgical Removal

Oncologists cited in advance of the operation stated an “excellent” prognosis for the pope, given that the nodule appeared to be localized and was removed at an early stage. The Vatican has not announced plans for further cancer treatment, including therapies such as chemotherapy, following the successful surgical removal of the tumor.

Vatican Health and Future Updates

The Vatican press office has not provided additional details regarding further treatment or future health updates. The focus remains on Pope Leo XIV's recovery following the surgery, as the “radical” removal was intended to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve his cancer prognosis.

Source: reviewjournal.com.