Pope Francis Undergoes Abdominal Surgery

Facts

• The Vatican stated on Wednesday that Pope Francis had undergone a three-hour abdominal hernia surgery without complications, with leading surgeon Dr. Sergio Alfieri adding that the 86-year-old pontiff was fine, awake, and joking.¹
• Dr. Alfieri noted that intestinal scar tissue — which had caused a partial blockage and pain in recent months — was removed entirely, so the procedure was considerably longer than the standard hernia operation which usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.²
• The surgeon, who also removed part of Francis' colon during an operation to treat diverticulitis in July 2021, added that the pontiff could continue with his planned trips to Portugal and Mongolia in August after his recovery.³
• The Pope arrived at Rome's Gemelli Polyclinic hospital, where he was admitted in March for three days to undergo bronchitis treatment, after presiding at Wednesday's general audience in St. Peter's Square.⁴
• As the surgery repaired a hernia that the Vatican said was causing "recurrent, painful, and worsening" symptoms, and would force the pontiff to remain in the hospital for several days, all papal audiences were canceled through June 18.⁵
• Francis, who suffers from sciatica nerve pain, had part of one lung removed when he was young. He uses a wheelchair and cane for walking assistance due to knee pain, for which he is reportedly unwilling to have an operation.⁶

Sources: ¹New York Times, ²Associated Press, ³Catholic News Agency, ⁴BBC News, ⁵CNN, and ⁶FOX News.

Narratives

• Narrative A, as provided by The Pillar. Given the precedent of papal retirement established by Benedict XVI, it is feasible that Pope Francis could step down from his role due to ongoing health challenges. Though he has denied any intention to follow the path of his predecessor, Francis has previously alluded to having signed a letter that could trigger his medical resignation.
• Narrative B, as provided by Washington Post. Pope Francis' physical health has undoubtedly declined with age, but he has demonstrated that he remains mentally fit to lead the Catholic Church. Under his moral guidance, the Holy See has pushed for greater liturgical uniformity and better representation among its high-ranked officials, all while fighting corruption. This mission of reform is not something Pope Francis should ever voluntarily step away from.

Predictions