ROME – Pope Francis encountered two acute respiratory episodes on Monday, prompting doctors to place him back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican announced. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling a persistent lung infection for over two weeks, underwent bronchoscopies to remove substantial mucus buildup in his lungs.
Doctors Address Mucus Buildup
During the procedures, medical staff extracted large amounts of mucus, a lingering effect of his initial pneumonia infection rather than a new bacterial complication, according to laboratory tests. While the Vatican stated that Francis remained alert and cooperative, his prognosis remains uncertain.
The lung secretions and bronchial spasms were cited as the main causes of his respiratory difficulties, making it necessary to reinstate mechanical ventilation. The Pope had previously required similar intervention last Friday, after suffering a coughing episode that led to inhaling stomach contents.
Concerns Over Recovery Progress
Medical experts suggest that the need for bronchoscopies to clear mucus indicates that Francis is struggling to expel secretions naturally, likely due to his chronic lung disease and limited physical activity.
“The fact that they had to manually remove mucus suggests he’s not clearing it on his own,” said Dr. John Coleman, a pulmonary specialist at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. “He’s taking steps forward, but also setbacks, which is concerning.”
Francis, who is overweight and uses a wheelchair, has been undergoing respiratory physiotherapy to strengthen his lungs, but the continued accumulation of mucus suggests diminished lung function.
Longest Absence of His Papacy
Since being hospitalized on February 14, Francis has remained out of the public eye. The Vatican has not released any photos or videos of him during this period, marking his longest absence in his 12-year papacy. While Vatican officials defend his right to recover privately, some close associates, such as Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, have urged him to make his presence known.
“The world needs to hear his voice,” Paglia said. “He has a universal perspective that is crucial in these times.”
Despite his illness, the Pope signed and dated an official message from his hospital room at Gemelli Polyclinic, criticizing the growing inefficacy of international organizations in addressing global crises.
End-of-Life Considerations in Catholic Teaching
The Vatican has not commented on whether Francis has given directives regarding his medical care should his condition deteriorate. However, Catholic doctrine holds that extraordinary measures may be withheld if they only prolong suffering, while ordinary care such as hydration and nutrition must always be provided.
In 2017, Francis himself stated that patients are not obligated to undergo every possible treatment if it is disproportionate to their condition. “The withdrawal of excessive treatment is a morally acceptable decision,” he said at the time.
Paglia, who leads the Pontifical Academy for Life, emphasized that the Pope is leading by example, reminding the elderly and ill of the importance of mutual care and dignity in fragility.
Historical Perspective
Although Francis’ 17-day hospitalization is among the longest of a pope in recent years, it does not surpass those of St. John Paul II, who endured multiple extended hospital stays. His longest single hospitalization lasted 55 days in 1981 due to complications from surgery and infection.
As the Pope continues his recovery, questions remain about how his health will impact his ability to lead the Church. The Vatican has yet to confirm when he will resume public engagements .
