Pope Francis’s Medical History: A Timeline of Pulmonary Issues and Other Ailments
Early Respiratory Infections and Lung Surgery
In his early 20s, then-Father Jorge Bergoglio underwent a surgical procedure to remove a portion of his lungs due to a severe respiratory infection contracted in his native Argentina. This intervention left him more susceptible to respiratory illnesses.
Double Pneumonia (2023)
On February 14, 2023, the 88-year-old Pope Francis was hospitalized at Gemelli University Hospital in Rome for a respiratory infection. Subsequent diagnostic tests revealed that he had developed double pneumonia, an infection affecting both lungs that can cause breathing difficulties. The Vatican canceled his weekend engagements as he underwent treatment.
Polymicrobial Infection (2023)
Prior to the pneumonia diagnosis, the Vatican announced that Francis was being treated for a polymicrobial infection, resulting from multiple pathogens. Such infections can lead to chronic and short-term illnesses.
2020-2022: Painful Sciatica and Knee Pain
In December 2020, Francis was forced to cancel appearances at end-of-year celebrations due to severe sciatica, a painful condition affecting the sciatic nerve. Vatican News reported that the pontiff struggled to stand during public appearances, requiring assistance from aides.
Sciatica recurred in January 2021, leading to the cancellation of additional engagements.
Throughout 2022, Francis experienced persistent knee pain, necessitating the use of a walker or wheelchair. Vatican News noted several instances where appearances had to be canceled.
2021: Colonic Diverticulitis and Surgery
In 2021, Pope Francis underwent surgery at Gemelli University Hospital to treat a diverticular stenosis of the colon, a rare complication of colonic diverticulitis. The procedure involved the removal of 13 inches of his colon. Francis spent 10 days in the hospital recovering.
At the beginning of 2023, Francis revealed that his diverticulitis had returned.
2023: Multiple Hospitalizations
In the spring of 2023, Francis was hospitalized for three days with bronchitis. A few months later, he returned for follow-up tests.
In June 2023, the Pope was admitted to Gemelli University Hospital for abdominal surgery. He underwent a laparotomy and abdominal wall surgery due to an incisional hernia, which was successfully repaired and reinforced with a mesh. Francis spent nine days in the hospital as a result.
2023: Flu-like Symptoms and CT Scan
In November 2023, Pope Francis visited the hospital to undergo a CT scan of his lungs due to flu-like symptoms. The tests showed no evidence of respiratory complications.
2023: Hematoma Due to Fall
In early December 2023, Francis fell and hit his chin on his nightstand, resulting in a significant hematoma on the lower right side of his chin.
2024: Diagnostic Tests for Flu-like Symptoms
About a year ago, Pope Francis visited Gemelli University Hospital for diagnostic tests following flu-like symptoms.
