Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital after lung cancer surgery, returning to the Vatican after four days of treatment in Rome. Doctors discharged Pope Leo XIV on Saturday after carefully reviewing blood tests, a chest X-ray, and his overall clinical condition.
The 71-year-old pontiff recently underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 13, to remove the lower lobe of his right lung successfully there. Medical tests confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, after doctors examined the suspicious growth removed during surgery.
Vatican officials said his postoperative recovery progressed normally, allowing doctors to approve discharge earlier than initially expected by medical staff. Before leaving Gemelli Hospital, Pope Leo greeted patients, medical workers, and well-wishers who gathered outside to offer encouragement in Rome.
He returned to the Vatican, where he planned to lead the traditional Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace window there. On Sunday, October 18, the pope appeared publicly for the first time since surgery and thanked people for their prayers.
Speaking to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square, he said he would gradually resume his usual activities with support. His doctors reported that he could carry out normal daily activities independently, although his recovery and test results remain important.
The Vatican has not disclosed whether additional treatment will be necessary, as specialists assess whether cancer spread beyond the lung. Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital as public engagements remain limited, with audiences and other events cancelled through at least Tuesday.
His medical team expressed optimism about recovery, while officials have avoided making definitive statements about the pope’s longer-term schedule yet. A planned November visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru remains under consideration as Vatican officials monitor his recovery and health.
The discharge marks a significant step after surgery, but doctors will continue evaluating his condition before confirming any further treatment.
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