Pope Leo XIV Returns to Vatican After Successful Lung Surgery

Pope Leo XIV, 71, has returned to the Vatican four days after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous nodule from his lung. The procedure was performed at Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic.

The Vatican announced the Pope's return on Saturday, noting that his health condition is now deemed satisfactory.

Pope Leo XIV was discharged from the hospital after a successful surgery. The Vatican released the first photos of the Pope since his operation, showing him celebrating a Mass in the hospital.

During his hospital stay, the Pope was visited by several dignitaries and well-wishers, including the Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, and the Prefect of the Papal Household, Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

The Pope's surgery was performed by a team of specialists led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, a renowned thoracic surgeon. The procedure lasted approximately two hours and was deemed successful.

Pope Leo XIV has been in good health overall, but the discovery of the lung nodule prompted medical professionals to recommend the surgery.

In the days following his surgery, Pope Leo XIV has been receiving medical care and monitoring at the Vatican.

Pope Leo XIV's return to the Vatican marks a significant milestone in his recovery. The Vatican has assured the public that the Pope is in good spirits and is continuing his recovery under medical supervision.

CONTEXT: The health of the Pope is a matter of significant interest to the global Catholic community, as well as to many non-Catholics who follow the Vatican closely.