Pope Francis, currently hospitalised with pneumonia, suffered a severe breathing "crisis" on Friday, prompting urgent medical intervention.
The Vatican confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation and underwent bronchoaspiration, responding well to the treatment.
The Holy See disclosed that the episode led to a sudden deterioration in his respiratory condition.
"The Holy Father promptly underwent broncho-aspiration and began non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with a good response on gas exchange," stated the Vatican in an official communication on Friday evening.
Medical response and prognosis
The Pope remains alert and cooperative despite the ordeal.
"The Holy Father remained alert and oriented at all times, cooperating with the therapeutic manoeuvres," the statement added.
A Vatican source further revealed that the next 24 to 48 hours would be crucial in determining whether this respiratory complication exacerbates his condition.
Also read: Pope rests as Argentines across Rome pray for his recovery
The pontiff, who is "not out of danger," is currently using an oxygen mask covering his nose and mouth but is reportedly in "good spirits".
"He also responded better than others might have done in his condition," the source remarked, underlining the Pope’s resilience amid his ongoing battle with pneumonia.
Health struggles and ongoing duties
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on 14 February due to breathing difficulties, which subsequently developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs.
Though an earlier update suggested that his condition had stabilised, this latest setback has renewed concerns over his health.
Despite his illness, the Pope continues to work from his hospital suite on the 10th floor, alternating between rest, prayer, and breathing exercises, according to Vatican sources. This marks the longest hospitalisation of his nearly 12-year papacy.
Pope's medical history
Francis has long struggled with respiratory issues, having had part of one lung removed during his youth.
He has also faced recurrent bouts of bronchitis and battles persistent knee and hip pain, requiring frequent use of a wheelchair.
In recent years, he has undergone major surgeries, including a colon operation and hernia repair, alongside hospitalisations for bronchitis.
Medical experts caution that at his age and with his history of chronic respiratory ailments, full recovery could take considerable time.
The Vatican has maintained the Pope’s prognosis as "reserved", refraining from making any long-term predictions about his health.
Speculation over resignation
The pontiff’s deteriorating health has reignited discussions about a possible resignation.
Vatican expert Marco Politi observed, "If the Pope survives, many imagine that he will want to finish the Jubilee year but that afterwards, when he is 89, he will face the question of whether or not to resign."
Francis has previously stated his openness to stepping down should his health significantly decline, following the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 due to frailty.
However, before his hospitalisation, Francis had asserted that the moment for resignation had not yet arrived and may never come.
With the Pope's schedule packed with engagements for the upcoming holy Jubilee year, the Vatican will closely monitor his condition before making any major announcements regarding his role.
The Holy Father remains under close medical observation as the Church awaits further updates on his condition.
Also read: Pope Francis in critical condition with early kidney failure
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