Doctors cleared the pontiff to leave Gemelli Hospital four days after surgery for lung adenocarcinoma, while tests on the cancer continue.
Pope Leo discharged from hospital on Saturday, the Vatican said, four days after surgeons at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital removed the lower lobe of his right lung. The 71 year old pontiff was cleared after blood tests, a chest X ray and a review of his condition. He is returning to the Vatican, where he is due to lead the Angelus prayer on Sunday.
Doctors Clear the Pope to Leave Gemelli Hospital
According to the Associated Press, in a report published by the Chicago Sun-Times, the pope’s personal physician and surgeon said he was “deemed fit for discharge from the hospital.” ABC News reported that the Vatican expected him to leave in the early afternoon. AOL reported that a large crowd cheered as he left through the main entrance of Gemelli Hospital.
The Vatican had first said the stay would last about a week. AOL reported that he was expected to remain until October 20.
Pope Leo Surgery: What Happened at Gemelli Hospital
Reuters reported on October 13 that surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung. A Vatican medical bulletin said the operation lasted about 90 minutes and ended without complications. Doctors had found the growth during a recent health checkup, Reuters said.
Leo told pilgrims in St Peter’s Square on October 11 that a “localized nodule” had been found and needed surgery, according to Reuters reporting carried by BusinessDay.
Pope Leo Lung Cancer: What Is Known About the Diagnosis
Tests during the operation confirmed lung adenocarcinoma, Reuters reported. ABC News described it as the most common form of lung cancer. It cited the Lung Cancer Foundation of America, which puts it at roughly 40 percent of cases.
The Associated Press reported that doctors are still waiting for results showing the molecular and genetic makeup of the cancer. They also need to learn whether it spread beyond the lobe and whether more treatment is required. Reuters quoted Dr Stephen Liu of Georgetown University, who said the tumor size and lymph node status would be central to any prognosis. The Vatican did not immediately provide either detail. AOL reported that no prognosis has been shared publicly.
Pope Leo Health Update: Recovery and Return to Work
Reuters reported that a Thursday medical bulletin described a recovery going as planned. Routine checks were normal, a chest X ray showed good lung recovery, and Leo completed physiotherapy with a full range of movement. The bulletins are signed by lead surgeon Stefano Margaritora and personal physician Luigi Carbone, Reuters said.
The Associated Press reported that Leo held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, met senior aides and celebrated Mass in a hospital chapel. The Vatican released the first images of him since surgery on Friday, showing him at the altar in green vestments.
Why Pope Leo Discharged From Hospital Earlier Than Planned
The Associated Press reported that Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the discharge date was up to the doctors. Experts had said patients can leave sooner depending on how quickly they recover.
Will Pope Leo Lead the Angelus Prayer on Sunday?
Yes. The National Catholic Register reported that the Vatican said he will lead the customary Angelus prayer on Sunday. The Associated Press said he will give the noon blessing from a window overlooking St Peter’s Square. His audiences are cancelled through Tuesday.
The Associated Press also reported that his next major trip, to Latin America from November 6 to 17, is still on the calendar. It said oncology surgeons generally clear patients to fly about three weeks after surgery if recovery allows.
Reaction Outside the Vatican
ABC News reported that flowers, candles and a picture of the pope were left at the John Paul II statue outside the hospital. Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump, who has clashed with Leo on several issues, said he wants to see the pope get well.
More coverage: World News | Health News | Dubai’s Create AI Agents Championship guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Pope Leo discharged from hospital after only four days?
The Associated Press reported that doctors cleared him after blood tests, a chest X ray and a clinical review. The Vatican had expected a stay of about a week.
What type of lung cancer does Pope Leo have?
Reuters reported that he has lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer, confirmed by tissue tests during surgery.
When was the Pope Leo surgery performed at Gemelli Hospital?
Surgeons operated on Tuesday, October 13. Reuters reported that they removed the lower lobe of his right lung in about 90 minutes, without complications.
Will Pope Leo lead the Angelus prayer this Sunday?
The Vatican said he will lead the Angelus prayer on Sunday, according to the National Catholic Register.
Has the Vatican shared a prognosis in its medical bulletin?
No. AOL reported that no prognosis has been made public, and the Associated Press said genetic tests are still pending.
Will the Pope Leo health update affect his Latin America trip?
The Associated Press reported that the trip is still scheduled for November 6 to 17. It has not been cancelled or changed.