Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican. The 71-year-old pontiff was discharged from Rome's Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Saturday afternoon, October 17, four days after surgery on his right lung, the Holy See Press Office confirmed.
Leo underwent a 90-minute video-assisted procedure on Tuesday, October 13, to remove an adenocarcinoma from the lower lobe of his right lung. His recovery was reported as uneventful: on Saturday morning, Dr. Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora — who performed the surgery — said blood tests, a chest X-ray and a clinical assessment confirmed he could leave hospital.
Before departing shortly after 3:30 p.m., the Pope thanked Margaritora, the medical and nursing team and the hospital's leadership, greeted healthcare staff and other patients, and celebrated Mass in a room on the hospital's 10th floor. During his stay he had resumed a regular diet and work, alongside respiratory and physical therapy. A large crowd gathered outside the hospital to see him off.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella sent warm wishes on behalf of the nation for a prompt and full recovery.
The discharge sets up a quick return to public duties: Leo is due to lead the Angelus, his customary Sunday prayer, from the window of the Apostolic Palace at noon on Sunday, October 18 — his first public appearance since the operation.
