Pope Leo XIV is expected to leave Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Saturday afternoon, October 17, after lung cancer surgery. The Vatican said he would return to his apartment and lead the Angelus prayer from its window on Sunday.

The discharge announcement followed new results from the pope’s doctors. It set out his planned departure but did not confirm that he had already left the hospital.

Surgery removed part of his right lung

Surgeons removed the lower lobe of the 71-year-old pope’s right lung on Tuesday, October 13. Tests on the tissue confirmed pulmonary adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, according to the Holy See.

The operation used a video-assisted technique and lasted about 90 minutes, according to the doctors’ account. They said it ended without complications.

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Leo had announced the discovery of a lung nodule on Sunday, October 11, before entering hospital. The diagnosis followed the removal of the affected section of his lung.

Tests show continued improvement

The Vatican said blood tests and a chest X-ray performed on Friday, October 16, showed continued improvement. Doctors reviewed the examination results before deciding that his condition allowed him to return to the Vatican.

During his hospital stay, Leo continued his daily activities independently, the Vatican said. He also celebrated Mass with hospital staff while recovering from the operation.

His planned appearance on Sunday, October 18, would bring him back before pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square. The Vatican said he would lead the Angelus from the window of the papal apartment.

Further treatment remains undecided

Doctors are awaiting specialized test results to establish the tumor’s biological profile, whether the disease has spread and whether further treatment is needed. They have not disclosed the tumor’s size or whether it has reached nearby lymph nodes.

The Vatican is also continuing preparations for Leo’s planned November visit to Latin America, according to Greek public broadcaster ERT. It said the Vatican expected the pope to have enough time to recover before the trip.