Pope Leo underwent surgery in Rome on Tuesday to remove the lower part of his right lung. A routine health check had identified a small growth, which subsequent tests confirmed to be lung cancer.
The procedure, known as a lobectomy, is considered standard for lung cancer detected at an early stage. For many patients, this operation may be the only treatment required.
During the operation, surgeons also remove nearby lymph nodes to check for any spread of the cancer. If these nodes are clear, surgery alone is often curative. The Vatican has not yet disclosed the results of these tests.
The Vatican reported that a diagnosis, initially suspected from earlier scans, was confirmed during the operation itself. This may have been achieved using a frozen section technique, where a tissue sample is analysed by a pathologist while the patient is still in surgery.
Pope Leo has adenocarcinoma, which is the most common type of non-small cell lung cancer. This form of cancer often develops in the outer parts of the lung and is the most common type found in people who have never smoked.
The operation was performed using a video-assisted technique, a common form of keyhole lung surgery. Keyhole methods generally lead to less pain, smaller scars, and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
Following the operation, a chest drain is typically left in place to allow air and fluid to escape. Patients are encouraged to move the day after surgery to reduce the risk of clots and chest infections. The pontiff is expected to remain in hospital for approximately one week.