The Vatican reported on Thursday that Pope Francis is in good condition following abdominal surgery. The Pope, who is 86 and has had several medical issues in recent years, had been admitted to the hospital for medical tests before the operation. The Vatican said he had a peaceful night after the procedure, and the results of routine clinical tests were positive. The Pope is resting on the 10th floor of the Policlinico A. Gemelli hospital in Rome, which has a suite reserved for popes. The surgery was to treat an incisional hernia, which had been causing painful blockages. Surgeons removed intestinal scar tissue and repaired the hernia during the three-hour operation. According to Professor Giampiero Campanelli, director of day and week surgery at the Galeazzi-Sant’Ambrogio hospital in Milan, the initial recovery period will take about a week, during which time the Pope will be monitored closely. The Vatican has canceled all of Francis’ public and private audiences until June 18, and he will have to avoid lifting heavy objects and exerting himself once he is released from the hospital.
The Pope has received many messages of well wishes for a speedy recovery. The diocese of Rome and patients of the Bambino Gesù hospital, which is owned by the Holy See, are among those who have called for prayers for his recovery. The Vatican has expressed gratitude for the messages and also requested continued prayers for the Pope. Dozens of cameras and reporters have gathered outside the Gemelli hospital, hoping for a glimpse of Pope Francis.
