Pope Leo's Postoperative Recovery 'Progressing Normally'

| 10/15/2026

By: Vatican News

Pope Leo XIV’s doctors say his chest X-ray on his third morning shows “good recovery of the lung that underwent surgery,” as he resumes work

A statue of St. John Paul II can be seen in front of the evening sky outside of Rome's Gemelli hospital where Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery to remove a nodule in his lung Oct. 13, 2026. The Vatican press office said the procedure was a success.
A statue of St. John Paul II can be seen in front of the evening sky outside of Rome's Gemelli hospital where Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery to remove a nodule in his lung Oct. 13, 2026. The Vatican press office said the procedure was a success. (CNS photo/Cristian Gennari)

On Thursday afternoon, Dr. Luigi Carbone and Prof. Stefano Margaritora provided an update on Pope Leo XIV’s postoperative recovery.

“This morning, the Holy Father underwent routine checks, which yielded normal results,” they said. “The chest X-ray showed good recovery of the lung that underwent surgery.”

The Pope’s doctors said he “carried out his daily activities independently,” adding that “his physiotherapy session included a full range of physical activities.”

“Overall, his postoperative recovery is progressing normally,” they concluded.

The Holy See Press Office reported that the Pope concelebrated Mass on Thursday morning in a room specially prepared for the purpose on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital, as he had done on Wednesday afternoon.

As he resumed work, Pope Leo met with the Substitute for General Affairs, Archbishop Paolo Rudelli, according to the Holy See Press Office.

Pope Leo XIV's doctors say his chest X-ray on his third morning shows "good recovery of the lung that underwent surgery," as he resumes work.

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