Pope Leo Returns to Vatican After Surgery, Surgeon Backs Latin America Tour

Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, with his surgeon expressing confidence that the pontiff will be fit to undertake his planned tour of South America next month.

The 71-year-old Pope was discharged from Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, October 17, after doctors confirmed that his recovery was progressing satisfactorily. He underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after a suspicious nodule was identified.

According to the Associated Press and Reuters, the operation confirmed that the growth was adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. The procedure was completed without complications, and medical assessments, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, supported the decision to discharge him earlier than initially anticipated.

Pope Leo’s surgeon, Professor Stefano Margaritora, told Vatican News that the pontiff could make a full physical recovery within approximately 10 days. He said there were no clinical reasons to prevent the Pope from undertaking his planned November 6–17 visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.

“The Holy Father has put his heart and soul into his recovery,” Margaritora said, praising the Pope’s determination and cooperation with medical staff.

The surgeon described the operation as routine from a medical standpoint and said the Pope required very little assistance during his recovery. However, further tests are being conducted to determine the characteristics of the tumour and whether additional treatment will be necessary.

Despite his hospitalisation, the pontiff continued some official duties, including speaking with senior aides and holding a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He also celebrated Mass in a chapel at the hospital before his discharge.

Pope Leo is expected to resume public engagements with the traditional Angelus prayer and blessing from the Vatican on Sunday, October 18.

His planned South American tour will involve multiple flights and visits to locations at high altitudes, making his recovery an important consideration. Although his surgeon has expressed confidence in the trip, the Pope’s medical team will continue monitoring his condition.

The operation represents the first major health challenge of Leo’s papacy, which began in May 2025. His return to the Vatican has brought reassurance to Catholics around the world, although the longer-term treatment plan remains dependent on the results of further medical examinations.