Pope Leo XIV has been diagnosed with lung cancer, the Vatican announced Tuesday, following surgery to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The procedure, which took place at Rome's Agostino Gemelli University Hospital, was described as minimally invasive and camera-guided.

The diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma was confirmed by an intraoperative histological examination, which is a rapid analysis of tissue performed while the patient is still in surgery. This confirmed suspicions from preoperative tests. The Holy See Press Office stated that the surgery lasted approximately 90 minutes and was successful, with no complications.

Pope Leo XIV, 71, underwent the operation after a lung nodule was discovered. He had previously stated that doctors deemed it opportune to intervene. A lung nodule is a small mass of dense tissue on the lung. The pontiff was in the operating room for about three hours in total.

Following the surgery, the Pope woke as expected and returned to his room on the 10th floor of the hospital. The Vatican had previously announced that the procedure was completed successfully and on schedule. He had departed the Vatican earlier on Tuesday for the hospital.

Cardinal Baldassare Reina, the Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome, led a Rosary prayer in the hospital chapel Tuesday evening, praying for the pontiff's strength and comfort for all hospitalized patients. He invoked Mary, Health of the Sick and Mother of the Church, to accompany their prayers.

The pontiff's recovery at the hospital was expected to last about a week, according to earlier Vatican statements. Video shared by Vatican News showed Pope Leo arriving at the hospital, greeting staff and appearing in good spirits.

Professor Stefano Margaritora led the thoracic surgery team that performed the operation. Dr. Luigi Carbone was also involved in explaining the procedure and diagnosis. The Vatican has provided updates on the pontiff's condition and the successful completion of the surgery.

This event marks a significant health development for the head of the Catholic Church. The Vatican's transparency regarding the diagnosis and procedure aims to keep the faithful informed about the Pope's well-being.