Surgeon Details Pope Leo XIV’s Lung Cancer Surgery and Recovery
The recent surgery of Pope Leo XIV has gained significant attention due to its unexpected discovery and successful completion. In an interview with Vatican News, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, who performed the operation, shared insights into the pope’s condition and recovery. The pope left the hospital four days post-surgery, greeted by a crowd of supporters.
Discovery of Cancer
Dr. Margaritora, who leads the thoracic surgery unit at the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital Foundation, revealed that Pope Leo XIV’s lung cancer diagnosis was an incidental finding. ‘The Holy Father falls into the category of people who discover they have lung cancer entirely by chance,’ he remarked. The tumor, positioned at the base of the right lung, might have gone unnoticed if it had been located slightly higher.
Importance of Preventive Checkups
Cancers often remain asymptomatic in early stages, as was the case with the pope. Dr. Margaritora emphasized the significance of regular preventive checkups for detecting such conditions early.
Surgical Procedure and Recovery
The surgery to remove the lung nodule was straightforward, with no complications encountered. Diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma during surgery, Pope Leo XIV recovered swiftly. Dr. Margaritora praised the pope as an ‘ideal patient,’ noting the pontiff’s active involvement and lack of issues during recovery.
Demonstrating his resolve, the pope was seen rearranging chairs in the hospital’s temporary chapel rooms himself, reflecting his vitality. ‘It doesn’t matter. I can do it, so I will,’ responded Pope Leo XIV, showing his willingness to maintain his normal activities where possible.
Resumption of Duties
Pope Leo XIV quickly resumed his responsibilities, including international conversations and meetings with church figures. Pictures released by the Vatican depicted him leading Mass and engaging with the clergy. Upcoming travels to South America are scheduled, marking his commitment to service amid recovery.