After undergoing examinations at a hospital in Rome on Tuesday, the 86-year-old Pope Francis will undergo urgent surgery on Wednesday afternoon for a risk of intestinal obstruction. The Vatican has announced that the surgical procedure, which will be performed under general anesthesia, will require several days of hospitalization. Pope Francis presided over the general audience in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday morning before being admitted to the A. Gemelli University Hospital for the laparotomy and plastic surgery of the abdominal wall with prostheses.

Pope Francis

The surgery is necessitated by an incisional hernia causing recurring, painful, and worsening sub-occlusive syndromes. The medical team attending to the Pope has organized the operation in recent days. Pope Francis had previously visited the Gemelli Hospital for undisclosed examinations on Tuesday morning. In July 2021, he underwent a major colon operation, resulting in residual effects from anesthesia. In late March, he received treatment for a respiratory infection during a three-day stay at the same hospital. Following Wednesday’s operation, the Pope will likely return to the tenth floor of Gemelli Hospital, occupying the same room previously used by Pope John Paul II, who had undergone multiple surgeries at the facility.

Pope Francis to Undergo Emergency Surgery for Intestinal Obstruction

Pope Francis has been grappling with chronic knee pain, often necessitating the use of a wheelchair or cane for mobility. His increasingly fragile health has raised speculation about the possibility of his resignation and succession. While he has previously expressed openness to stepping down if his health deteriorates, he recently stated that such a decision is not currently under consideration. Despite health challenges, Pope Francis maintains an active travel schedule, including upcoming visits to Portugal in early August, Mongolia in early September, and Marseille on September 23rd. He is accompanied by a dedicated medical team both at the Vatican and during international trips, given his history of significant medical interventions, such as surviving pleurisy at the age of 21 and undergoing partial lung removal.

Pope Francis to Undergo Emergency Surgery for Intestinal Obstruction

Pope Francis is scheduled for emergency surgery to address the risk of intestinal obstruction. The procedure, conducted under general anesthesia, will result in an extended hospital stay. As the Pope’s health condition continues to be monitored closely, speculations about his possible resignation and succession persist. Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis remains committed to his responsibilities and plans for future international engagements. The ongoing support of a dedicated medical team underscores the importance of ensuring his well-being, given his complex medical history.