Pope Leo XIV is set to undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a localised nodule in his lung, which doctors detected at a very early stage, according to Vatican News.

The Pope made the announcement today while addressing the faithful gathered for the Angelus, explaining that his medical team had recommended surgery to remove the nodule.

“During some recent medical examinations, doctors found a localized nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well localized,” the Pope said in a translation of his remarks.

He added that, following his doctors’ advice, he had decided to proceed with the operation, which is scheduled to take place at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.

The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, subsequently informed journalists that the procedure is planned for the first days of this week, with an estimated post-operative recovery period of approximately one week.

Pope Leo also expressed gratitude to those who have offered him spiritual support, entrusting himself to the prayers of the faithful as he prepares for the procedure.

The announcement provides some details about the Pope’s medical condition, with the nodule described as localised and detected at an early stage. However, Vatican News did not provide further medical details about the nature of the nodule.

The Gemelli Hospital is a major medical facility in Rome that has previously provided treatment to popes.

Credit: Vatican News