Pope Leo XIV to leave hospital on Saturday after lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV will leave the hospital on Saturday, four days after undergoing lung cancer surgery. The Vatican announced that the 71-year-old pontiff will also deliver his traditional noon blessing on Sunday from a window overlooking St. Peter's Square.

Medical Details And Recovery

Doctors removed the lower lobe of the pope's right lung after finding a suspected cancerous nodule. The surgery confirmed he had adenocarcinoma, which is the most common type of lung cancer. His personal physician and surgeon stated that blood test results, a chest X-ray, and a clinical assessment on Saturday morning made him fit for discharge. Medical bulletins earlier noted a smooth recovery, allowing him to handle normal daily tasks by himself. He even celebrated Mass in a hospital chapel and spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone since the procedure on Tuesday.

Future Plans And Tests

The Vatican originally planned for a weeklong hospital stay, but doctors approved an earlier release. His next major event is a trip to Latin America scheduled from November 6 to November 17, which involves a dozen flights and two helicopter trips. Meanwhile, doctors are still waiting for test results on the genetic makeup of the cancer to check if it spread and if further treatment is needed.

Context

Pope Leo XIV previously announced his lung condition openly to the public in St. Peter's Square before his operation. Medical recovery timelines for lung procedures often depend on individual healing and follow-up test results.