Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to undergo an operation this week to remove “a localized nodule” in his lung that was “detected at a very early stage.” It marks the first medical event of his 17-month papacy, reports BritPanorama.
The Vatican announced that Leo will be admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Tuesday, anticipating a weeklong hospitalization for recovery.
A lung nodule is a small abnormal area, generally measuring less than 3 centimeters (about 1.2 inches) in diameter. These nodules are often identified via CT scans that are conducted for other medical issues, such as trauma or lung infections. Health experts emphasize the importance of prompt evaluation, as nodules can be either benign or malignant. If cancerous, the prognosis is generally excellent if addressed early.
A nodule can be benign or malignant
Leo, 71, is considered otherwise healthy and physically fit, factors that bode well for his recovery. He disclosed that the nodule was found during “recent medical tests,” which the Vatican characterized as “routine” and not prompted by any specific health concern.
Surgery followed by a week of recovery
The Vatican specified that surgery will be performed in the early days of this week, with an expected week of recovery. Oncologists not involved in Leo’s treatment indicated that many patients are often discharged within a few days and continue their recovery at home.
The exact date of the surgery remains undisclosed, but the pope maintained a full schedule of audiences and appointments on the preceding Monday.
He will receive treatment at Gemelli hospital, formally known as the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, which is associated with the Catholic Sacred Heart University. The facility features a dedicated apartment for pontiffs on its tenth floor, including a private chapel. Leo’s immediate predecessor, Pope Francis, was treated there prior to his May 2025 death following a respiratory crisis.
St. John Paul II, who frequently stayed at the Gemelli, famously referred to it as “Vatican III,” a nod to both the Vatican and the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo.
Upcoming activities and trip in question
This week, Leo had several activities scheduled, but the Vatican announced the cancellation of all audiences through October 20.
Additionally, he has a significant trip planned from November 6 through 17 to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. It remains uncertain whether the surgery and subsequent recovery will impact this itinerary, which includes numerous flights, helicopter rides, and significant altitude changes in Peru. Leo had expressed intent to proceed with the trip earlier this week.
Pope remains in charge, even when unconscious
The Vatican currently has no specific regulations regarding succession if a pope becomes entirely incapacitated. Even during surgery, Leo retains his authority as pope.
Precedents exist, as both Pope Francis and St. John Paul II managed to retain control throughout their hospitalizations, continuing to make appointments and issue directives from their hospital rooms. Daily operations at the Vatican are managed by a dedicated team of officials.
Medical advances have intensified discussions about the need for the Vatican to formulate protocols for potential future scenarios where a pope could be incapable of governing effectively.
Two days before announcing his surgery, Leo confirmed a notable appointment, naming Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as the new dean of the College of Cardinals, replacing Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who served until 92. Tagle was appointed at the last minute to represent Leo at a Mass concluding a recent family ministry conference.
The dean holds significant responsibilities during a papal transition, including presiding over the previous pope’s funeral and leading discussions among cardinals before arriving at a conclave to elect a new pope if necessary.
The Vatican also released a letter from Leo to Re, expressing gratitude for his lifelong service and notably recalling Re’s role in the preceding papal transition.
“I do not think I am mistaken in saying that you, Your Eminence, have been and remain one of the Holy See’s best-known and most esteemed servants,” he wrote.
