Leo XIV will undergo surgery after a nodule in his lung; understand the procedure and how the Church is commanded

Leo XIV will undergo surgery after a nodule in his lung — Photo: Globo/ Reproduction

The Vatican reported that Pope Leo XIV will be hospitalized this Tuesday (13) for surgery after tests revealed the presence of a nodule in his lung.

On the eve of the procedure, the pontiff maintained his work routine at the Vatican.

Leo XIV received bishops from Argentina, Nicaragua and the United States and participated in seven meetings throughout the morning, while the Roman Curia was still assimilating the news of the surgery.

The pope will be admitted to the Gemelli Polyclinic. The operation can be carried out on Tuesday or Wednesday.

According to information released by the Vatican, mild respiratory inflammation led to the tests that ended up identifying the nodule.

Thoracic surgeon Federico Venuta explained that the procedure can also function as a biopsy, allowing the nature of the injury to be determined.

During the period of hospitalization, Leo XIV must continue to govern the Church from the hospital, as has already occurred with other pontiffs.

During general anesthesia, however, the pope will be temporarily unable to make decisions.

Canon Law does not provide for the automatic transfer of the pontiff's powers in these circumstances.

On Friday, Leo XIV chose a new dean for the College of Cardinals. Philippine Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle will preside over the College of Cardinals and will play an important role in organizing a possible conclave.

There are those who raise the hypothesis that the choice was brought forward due to the surgery.

The pope's appointments were canceled until October 20.

The decision to perform the surgery now may be related to the intention to continue the 11-day trip to Latin America scheduled for November 6th. The itinerary includes passages through high altitude regions.

During the trip, Leo XIV intends to return to Chiclayo, Peru, the city where he was bishop for nine years.

In Saint Peter's Square, faithful prayed for the pontiff's recovery.

"We wish the Holy Father a speedy and complete recovery. The entire Church is praying for him", said seminarian Paolo Mignona.