Overview
- The pope announced the decision publicly at the Angelus, which he delivered on Sunday, Oct. 11, saying doctors detected a well‑localized pulmonary nodule at an early stage and advised removal.
- The Holy See confirmed the operation is scheduled at Rome’s Policlínico Gemelli in the first days of next week and that Matteo Bruni expects roughly a seven‑day post‑operative hospitalization.
- Vatican statements stressed the clinical picture is preliminary and that no determination has been released on whether the nodule is benign or malignant pending pathology and further tests.
- The November apostolic trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru remains on the published schedule but Vatican officials say its final status will depend on surgical results and the pope’s recovery.
- León XIV is 71 and was elected in May 2025; the Gemelli has a long history of papal care, Italian leaders have sent messages of support, and the outcome will shape logistics and pastoral plans for millions of faithful in Latin America.