What awaits Papa after the operation? A key finding awaits

Pope Francis has undergone surgery for lung cancer in Rome, according to Vatican officials. Surgeons removed part of his right lower lobe after routine medical checks revealed a small growth confirmed later as cancerous. The procedure, known as a lobectomy, is a standard treatment for early-stage lung cancer and often represents the sole intervention required for many patients. The operation involves removing an entire lobe of the lung containing the tumor, increasing the chances of eliminating all cancer cells along with surrounding healthy tissue. Patients can lead active lives with four lobes remaining, and the remaining portion of the lung adapts over time. Surgeons also remove nearby lymph nodes to check for cancer spread. Results from these tests have yet to be released by the Vatican. Diagnosis was confirmed during the operation itself, which allowed for rapid analysis of the removed tissue while the patient was still under anesthesia. This quick turnaround helps surgeons decide how much of the lung to remove, preserving healthy tissue if the growth proves benign. More detailed analysis will follow in the days after the procedure. Lung cancer is categorized into two main types based on cell appearance under a microscope: small-cell and non-small-cell. Non-small-cell accounts for around 85% of cases, with adenocarcinoma being the most common form within this group. It typically grows in the outer parts of the lungs and is frequently found in individuals who have never smoked, although the overall number of affected individuals is higher among smokers. Small growths in the lungs are often discovered incidentally during imaging scans performed for unrelated reasons or during routine medical examinations. Detailed CT scans show the size and location of the mass, while PET scans check for signs of disease spread. When there's a high likelihood that a small mass is actually a tumor, doctors may opt for immediate surgery instead of taking a biopsy beforehand. Modern lobectomies are usually performed minimally invasive using a camera and several small incisions or through robotic systems controlled from a console near the operating table. The Vatican stated that video-assisted techniques were used in Pope Francis’s surgery, which generally result in less pain, fewer scars, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. A drainage tube remains in the body after the operation to allow air and fluid to escape until the lungs heal. Patients are encouraged to get out of bed the following day to reduce the risk of blood clots and respiratory infections. Pope Francis is expected to remain in the hospital for approximately a week. Final pathological findings will determine whether further treatment is needed. For adenocarcinoma, genetic changes that might respond to specific medications are routinely checked today. Following his surgery, Pope Francis called Russian President Vladimir Putin to request a ceasefire to enable humanitarian aid delivery to the besieged Ukrainian city of Oleksiy. The Vatican expressed hope that cooperation between both sides would facilitate food and medical supplies, as well as safe evacuation of civilians. Putin agreed to cooperate with the Vatican on organizing supplies for the city, though he did not mention a ceasefire. The Pope, who assumed office in May 2025, has met with Zelensky several times, including recently at his residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, where he urged European leaders to adopt a unified approach in peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. The situation in Oleksiy, located in the Kherson region of Ukraine, has worsened with food supply issues. Approximately 1,700 people remain in the city, including 47 children. Both Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of hindering aid deliveries. Moscow acknowledged serious problems with food and medical supply distribution but blamed Ukraine for blocking deliveries. Ukrainian forces aim to retake the city. Pope Francis, recovering in a Rome hospital, continues working and performing daily activities. His health is gradually improving, and he remains engaged in his duties.