Pope Leo XIV enters Gemelli Hospital for lung nodule surgery

Pope Leo XIV entered Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic on Tuesday for surgery to remove a localized nodule from his lung. The 71-year-old pontiff disclosed the finding himself during his Sunday Angelus address in St. Peter's Square. He said doctors discovered the nodule during recent medical examinations, that it was detected at a very early stage, and that it is well localized. He decided to follow their recommendation for surgical removal. The Vatican canceled all papal audiences through October 20.

The operation is the first major health event of Leo's 17-month pontificate, which began on May 8, 2025. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that admission would occur late Tuesday morning and that recovery is expected to take about one week. The surgical team is led by Dr. Stefano Margaritora, Gemelli's chief thoracic surgeon. The nodule will be tested to determine whether it is malignant. Oncologists have said that early removal improves the outlook even if the lesion proves cancerous, provided it has not spread to lymph nodes.

Leo walked into the hospital and waved to well-wishers. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. Gemelli maintains a dedicated papal apartment with meeting rooms, a kitchen, and a chapel, a facility used by previous popes including Francis and John Paul II. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is scheduled to lead Wednesday's closing Mass of a family ministry conference in the pope's absence.

Leo has a planned trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17. He indicated before the surgery that he still intended to make the journey. The Vatican has not said whether the hospital stay will alter the itinerary. Leo is considered physically active, with regular tennis and swimming. He has no previously disclosed major health problems. His decision to announce the diagnosis publicly during the weekly blessing marked a departure from more reserved approaches by some predecessors.

The American Thoracic Society notes that fewer than five percent of lung nodules ultimately become cancerous, though risk rises with age and size. Leo's age places him in a higher-risk group, which is one reason doctors recommended intervention. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and others sent public messages wishing him a successful procedure and full recovery. Archbishop Daniel Sturla of Montevideo called for prayers and continued preparation for the planned visit to Uruguay.

The surgery occurs against the backdrop of Leo's early efforts to address conflicts, artificial intelligence, and other global issues. His recovery will determine how quickly he returns to public duties and whether the Latin American trip proceeds on schedule. The Vatican has said further updates will be issued after the operation. The early-stage detection and planned complete removal provide the clearest available information on his immediate medical path.