Pope Francis Suffers Two New Episodes Of ‘Acute Respiratory Failure’: Vatican- wna24
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Rome: Pope Francis suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday, requiring emergency bronchoscopies to clear his airways, the Vatican confirmed. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for 18 days, continued to struggle with his recovery from pneumonia.
Pope Underwent Two Emergency Procedures
According to the Vatican, “Today, the Holy Father experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm.”
To assist his breathing, doctors at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital performed two bronchoscopies to “aspirate abundant secretions.” By afternoon, Pope Francis was placed back on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, using an oxygen mask. Despite his condition, the Vatican assured that he remained “alert, focused, and cooperative.”
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Doctors Still Uncertain About Pope’s Recovery
The Vatican stated that the pope’s prognosis remains “reserved,” indicating that doctors were still unable to determine the likely outcome of his condition.
Just a day earlier, officials had reported that Francis’s health was stable, following a breathing crisis on Friday. Over the weekend, the pope had needed oxygen support on Friday and Saturday, but had managed without it on Sunday, when he attended mass and alternated between rest and prayer.
Pontiff Missed Angelus Prayer for Third Consecutive Sunday
Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, remained in a special hospital suite reserved for pontiffs on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital.
For the third straight Sunday, he was unable to lead his traditional Angelus prayer. Instead, the Vatican issued a written message from the pope, in which he expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he had received.
“I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all,” the pope’s message read.
The pope’s prolonged hospitalization has raised concern worldwide, especially as he battles pneumonia in both lungs. Despite his health struggles, he continued to meet Vatican officials, including Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Venezuelan Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, on Sunday.