Pope's lung surgery was successful and went as planned, Vatican says

The Pope's surgery to remove a small growth on one ‌of his lungs went "successfully and according to plan", the Vatican says.

The announcement was made about seven hours after the 71-year-old pontiff was admitted to hospital for the first major health issue of his 17-month tenure.

Pope Leo XIV was treated at Rome's Gemelli hospital for the removal of the small nodule, which he said on Sunday was spotted early during a recent check-up.

The Vatican said in a statement on Tuesday: "The procedure was completed successfully, within the expected timeframe and as planned."

It did not give further details.

Professor Stefano Margaritora, the hospital's chief thoracic surgeon, carried out the operation.

Pope Leo left the Vatican ahead of the surgery shortly before 1pm local time in Rome and shook hands with several officials after arriving at the hospital.

Some well wishers shouted 'auguri' (best wishes) as he headed in via the main entrance.

The pontiff is expected to recover in hospital for about a week, the Vatican said - with all of his public events cancelled until 20 October.

It is not yet clear what tests have been performed on the nodule.

Pope Leo, who is originally from the US, has no previously known health problems and is physically active, with weekly tennis games and swimming at the papal summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo.

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He originally announced the diagnosis during his weekly Sunday noon blessing from St Peter's Square in Vatican City.

The pontiff told pilgrims: "The doctors consider it appropriate to intervene, and so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to have it removed.

"I thank you and entrust myself to your prayers."

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