ROME — Pope Leo XIV underwent successful chest surgery Tuesday afternoon at Gemelli Hospital to treat a localized form of lung cancer, according to a statement from the Holy See.

Surgeons removed the lower part of the Pope's right lung using a minimally invasive, keyhole technique. Lab tests performed during the procedure confirmed that the tissue was a cancerous tumor, matching preliminary tests.

The procedure lasted about 90 minutes, with the Pope spending roughly three hours total in the operating room. Doctors reported that the surgery was completely successful with no complications.

After waking and spending a short time under observation, Pope Leo XIV returned to his private room on the hospital's 10th floor to begin his recovery.