Pope Leo is expected to leave hospital on Saturday afternoon following surgery for lung cancer, the Vatican said, after blood tests and chest imaging found him fit to return home four days after his operation.
The 71-year-old pontiff, who has not been seen in public since a procedure on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, will also hold his first public engagement since surgery on Sunday.
He will lead weekly prayers with pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square at noon.
Leo has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. The diagnosis for a pope known to be relatively young and energetic and who was elected only in May last year caused shock and raised questions about the future shape of his papacy as he deals with the illness.