Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and returned to the Vatican, four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.
The 71-year-old pontiff left the hospital on Saturday, October 17, after doctors reviewed his postoperative test results and determined that his condition was stable enough for him to continue recovering outside the hospital.
According to the Vatican, blood tests and a chest X-ray carried out that morning supported the decision to discharge him. The pope had undergone surgery on Tuesday, October 13, at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
As he departed, Leo walked unaided to his waiting vehicle and acknowledged the well-wishers gathered outside the hospital. He briefly interacted with people before getting into a black sports utility vehicle bound for the Vatican.
“I am better, thank you,” the pope said when asked about his condition.
His discharge came earlier than the initially anticipated hospital stay of approximately one week, following reports that his recovery was progressing normally.
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The pope underwent an operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors detected a suspicious growth during medical examinations.
The Vatican later confirmed that laboratory examination of the removed tissue identified lung adenocarcinoma, a type of lung cancer. The surgery was reported to have been completed successfully, without complications.
During his hospital stay, Leo gradually resumed some daily activities, including walking independently and participating in physiotherapy. He also celebrated Mass in the hospital before his discharge.
Although his release marks an important step in his recovery, details about whether additional cancer treatment will be required have not been fully established publicly.
Pope Expected to Resume Duties Gradually
Following his return to the Vatican, the pope was scheduled to lead the traditional Angelus prayer from the window of the Apostolic Palace on Sunday, October 18.
The Vatican had previously cancelled his public audiences and other scheduled engagements through October 20 to allow time for recovery.
His medical team’s decision to discharge him followed an assessment of his clinical condition, including blood tests and chest imaging. However, leaving hospital does not necessarily mean that his recovery is complete, and his activities may continue to be adjusted according to medical advice.
Leo’s health has drawn international attention because of his role as head of the Catholic Church, which has approximately 1.4 billion members worldwide.
Planned South American Trip Remains in Focus
Before his hospital admission, the pope was preparing for a planned trip to South America from November 6 to 17, with visits scheduled to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
The journey is particularly significant because Leo spent many years serving as a missionary in Peru before becoming pope.
His discharge has renewed attention on whether he will be able to undertake the trip as planned. Any final decision will depend on his recovery and the guidance of his medical team and Vatican officials.
For now, his return to the Vatican allows him to continue recuperating outside hospital while preparing for a gradual return to his public responsibilities.
The Vatican has continued to provide updates on the pope’s condition, while Catholics and well-wishers around the world have offered prayers for his recovery.
