Pope Leo left a Rome hospital on Saturday and returned to the Vatican four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, appearing in good spirits as he waved to well-wishers ahead of his first public engagement since the operation.

Reuters reported that the 71-year-old pontiff walked unaided to his waiting car outside Gemelli Hospital, where he stopped to speak with a 13-year-old Ukrainian girl receiving cancer treatment in Italy.

Video released by the Vatican showed Leo smiling and waving through an open window as his black SUV departed the hospital.

His doctors said he was well enough to return home following blood tests and chest imaging, adding that he could perform normal daily activities independently.

Leo underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. The operation was completed successfully, without complications, Reuters reported.

However, doctors have not disclosed the tumour’s size or whether the cancer had spread to nearby lymph nodes, factors that could help determine his prognosis.

The pope is scheduled to lead his weekly prayers with pilgrims from his apartment overlooking St. Peter’s Square at noon on Sunday, marking his first public engagement since surgery.

His medical team also indicated that his planned South American trip from November 6 to 17 could proceed as scheduled. The visit is expected to include Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.

Lead surgeon Dr. Stefano Margaritora told Vatican News that Leo could be fully recovered within another 10 days and that there were no clinical reasons to cancel the planned journey.

The diagnosis has prompted questions about the future of Leo’s papacy, which began in May 2025.

 

Credit: Reuters