ROME — Pope Leo XIV departed the Vatican on Tuesday to undergo surgery at a Rome hospital for the removal of a lung nodule. The procedure is being performed by a thoracic surgery team led by Professor Stefano Margaritora at the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital.
The Vatican press office confirmed the admission, stating, “This afternoon, he will undergo surgery for a lung mass.” Additional details regarding the operation are expected to be released Tuesday evening.
The 71-year-old pontiff first announced on Sunday that he would undergo the procedure, describing the lung mass as being in a “very initial phase” and “well localized.” He noted that doctors recommended intervention and anticipated a hospital stay of approximately one week for recovery.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, told reporters that he was struck by the pope’s serenity upon hearing the announcement. “We are confident,” Parolin said, adding that the faithful would accompany Leo with prayers and affection.
A pulmonary nodule is defined by the American Lung Association as a small mass of dense tissue in the lung. Medical professionals have characterized the discovery of this particular nodule as early-stage.
Gemelli Hospital, formally known as Policlinico Universitario Fondazione Agostino Gemelli, is Rome’s largest medical facility and has historically served as the primary hospital for popes, including Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away in 2025 at age 88.
Pope Leo, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, became the first American pope and the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church when he was elected in May 2025.
First American pope and already facing health challenges? I hope the team at Gemelli keeps him in good spirits during his stay.
Thankfully it is early-stage and the procedure is routine. Wishing Pope Leo a swift recovery.