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Pope Leo announced on Tuesday that he will undergo surgery in the coming days to remove a nodule that has been found on his lung. The decision was made after a routine check‑up revealed the growth, and the pope said the procedure would be done at the Vatican’s hospital. He added that the operation is a standard lung biopsy and that he expects a swift recovery.

The pope, who is 86, has faced several health setbacks in recent years, including a heart procedure in 2020 and a bout of pneumonia last winter. The discovery of a lung nodule is significant because nodules can be benign or malignant, and early treatment is key. The Vatican’s medical team used a CT scan to detect the nodule, a common practice for older patients who have a higher risk of lung cancer.

According to the Vatican’s spokesperson, the nodule measures 1.2 centimeters and is located on the right lower lobe. The planned surgery is a minimally invasive video‑assisted thoracoscopic procedure, which usually involves a short hospital stay. Pope Leo’s personal physician has confirmed that the operation is scheduled for Thursday, and the pope will be monitored closely by a team of specialists. The Holy See said it would keep the faithful informed of any developments.

The surgery’s outcome could affect the pope’s ability to carry out his duties in the short term. If the nodule proves to be benign, the pope may return to his schedule within a week; if malignant, further treatment could follow. The Vatican will continue to provide updates, and the pope’s close aides will likely step in to handle urgent matters during his recovery. The event underscores the importance of regular medical screening for senior leaders and the Church’s commitment to the pope’s health and the faithful’s well-being.