Pope Francis likely to be discharged from Gemelli in the next few days

By Vatican News staff reporter

Pope Francis is expected to be discharged in the days to come, the Holy See Press Office says in its latest update on the Holy Father's recovery following his surgery last Wednesday.

In the statement, the Director of the Press Office, Matteo Bruni, said: "The Holy Father rested well during the night. The medical staff reports that the clinical course is proceeding regularly, without complications, and therefore they are planning his discharge for the next few days."

During the morning, Bruni noted, "the Holy Father devoted himself to his work activities. Before lunch, he went to the chapel of his private suite where he spent time in prayer and received the Eucharist."

Bruni has sent regular statements confirming the Pope's progress, consistently stating the medical team reports that the clinical picture is progressively improving and "the post-operative course is regular."

Last night, the Director of the Press Office noted that Pope Francis spent time Tuesday afternoon working and reading.

Following the surgery on Wednesday, the Pope's surgeon, Professor Sergio Alfieri, told reporters that there were no complications with the operation, and that the Pope was conscious, alert, and joking after the procedure. Dr Alfieri said the Pope should eventually be able to resume travel and his normal activities, but should not lift heavy objects.

Last week, the Holy See Press Office announced that his audiences have been suspended until 18 June.

Pope Francis has Apostolic Journeys to Portugal and Mongolia scheduled for August.