Pope Francis is scheduled to undergo abdominal surgery today following his admission to a hospital in Rome.
As per a Vatican statement, the esteemed 86-year-old pontiff’s medical team has determined that surgical intervention is necessary for his intestinal condition, and he is expected to remain hospitalized for a few days to facilitate a smooth recovery.
On Tuesday, the Pope was taken to Gemelli Hospital in the Italian capital for a routine check-up. However, his frail appearance in a wheelchair, relying on a cane to alleviate persistent knee pain, was evident as he greeted the audience at St. Peter’s Square.
Merely a few months ago, Francis endured a five-day hospitalization due to a lung infection that led to respiratory distress, coinciding with the busy Easter period, a significant occasion in the Pope’s calendar.
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Today, the surgical procedure will be performed in the afternoon, requiring the Pope to undergo general anesthesia, as communicated by the Vatican.
Following the operation, he will remain in the medical facility for several days to allow for the standard postoperative healing process and complete functional recuperation, as outlined in the official statement.
This surgical intervention occurs roughly two years after Francis underwent partial colon removal to address diverticulitis, a painful bowel condition that emerged in July 2021. Earlier this year, the Pope disclosed that the condition had resurfaced, necessitating further medical attention.
It is noteworthy that the Pope had previously expressed his reluctance to undergo knee surgery, owing to the unfavorable side effects he experienced from general anesthesia during his colon operation.
Overall, the Pope’s upcoming abdominal surgery marks another significant chapter in his ongoing medical journey, highlighting the importance of diligent care and treatment for his well-being.
