Pope Leo XIV Leaves Hospital After Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV is set to be released from the hospital on Saturday, four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff had the lower lobe of his right lung removed due to a suspected cancerous nodule, which was confirmed to be adenocarcinoma.

His personal physician and surgeon stated he was fit for discharge, citing favorable test results and his clinical condition. The Pope had previously announced his diagnosis transparently to the public last Sunday.

Since his Tuesday surgery, Pope Leo XIV has demonstrated a strong recovery, engaging in phone calls, meeting with aides, and celebrating Mass in a hospital chapel. He was pictured standing at an altar, leading a liturgy and distributing Communion.

While audiences were canceled through Tuesday, his discharge aligns with the initial estimated hospital stay. His next major engagement is a trip to Latin America from November 6-17, which allows for three weeks of recovery before the demanding itinerary. Doctors await further test results to determine the cancer's full extent and any necessary future treatment.