Adnkronos (Adnkronos) – The lung nodule diagnosed in Pope Leo XIV during some routine checks "first requires an evaluation to determine its nature. Usually, this is done with a biopsy, which involves taking a small tissue sample, which is analyzed to determine the type of lesion. Based on the results of the histological examination, a decision is made as to which intervention to perform," Vincenzo Montesarchio, oncologist and director of the Department of Pneumology and Medical Specialties at Monaldi Hospital in Naples, explained to Adnkronos Salute.
In the Pope's case, the specialist specifies, it is not known whether the "limited" lung nodule, which the Pope spoke about for the first time during Sunday's Angelus, "has already been biopsied."
It's possible to "proceed directly with surgery, analyzing the tissue removed during the operation through a rapid histological examination. The results will allow doctors to decide how to proceed with the procedure," adds Montesarchio.
Once the definitive histological examination is obtained, "doctors," the oncologist emphasizes, "can evaluate whether further therapies are necessary after the operation, with the aim of reducing the risk of the disease recurring."
Regarding recovery, in these cases, "hospitalization generally lasts about seven days. However, the patient can get up and walk the day after surgery, thanks to advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques." "In the past, it was necessary to open the chest, while today, in many cases, it is possible to operate through small incisions between the ribs, using specialized instruments, cameras, and drains.
These techniques help reduce surgical trauma and promote a quicker recovery,” he concludes.
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