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Pope Leo XIV discharged from Gemelli Hospital after surgery

The Pope was discharged in good health and will recite the Angelus tomorrow from the Apostolic Palace.

17 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Pope Leo XIV discharged from Gemelli Hospital after surgery — Archive photoPhoto: Oleografia Panigati e Meneghini Milano · Wikimedia Commons · CC0

Pope Leo XIV was discharged this afternoon from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, after undergoing surgery on October 13 for the removal of a lung adenocarcinoma. Doctors deemed the pontiff 'fit for discharge', considering the results of blood tests and a radiological check performed this morning, as reported by the Vatican press office.

Before leaving the hospital, the Pope celebrated a Mass at noon in the room on the tenth floor of the polyclinic. During his exit, Leo XIV greeted the faithful present and stated, 'I am feeling much better.' His condition was confirmed by doctors, who ruled out clinical reasons that would prevent his planned trip to South America on November 6.

Professor Stefano Margaritora, the surgeon who operated on the pontiff, confirmed that there are no contraindications for his participation in the upcoming trip to Latin America. Doctors have positively assessed the Pope's post-operative recovery, which is proceeding regularly and without complications.

The Vatican press office announced that tomorrow, Sunday, October 18, Leo XIV will recite the traditional Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter's Square. This moment of prayer is eagerly anticipated by many faithful.

The Pope's discharge came after a five-day hospitalization during which his health was constantly monitored. According to various media reports, the Holy Father showed signs of consistent improvement during his stay in the hospital.

However, Professor Margaritora explained that a complete recovery will require another ten days. The Pope, who approached the surgery with a positive attitude, will therefore be back in contact with the faithful and continue to carry out his papal duties starting tomorrow.

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