Pope Francis experienced two severe breathing attacks on Monday, requiring two separate bronchoscopies and a return to noninvasive mechanical ventilation as he continues to battle pneumonia, the Vatican said.
“Today, the Holy Father experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm,” stated the Vatican on the pontiff’s 18th day at hospital, his longest hospitalisation during his papacy.
The Argentine pontiff was taken to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which progressed to pneumonia affecting both lungs, causing worldwide concern.
According to Monday’s evening medical update, the pope underwent two bronchoscopic procedures to remove substantial secretions. The bulletin confirmed he resumed using non-invasive mechanical ventilation in the afternoon through an oxygen mask, whilst remaining alert and cooperative.
The Vatican maintains its ‘reserved’ prognosis, indicating medical professionals are unable to predict the outcome of his condition, a stance maintained throughout his hospitalisation.
Following a respiratory crisis on Friday, the Vatican had reported the pope’s condition as stable on Sunday evening. The Catholic leader, overseeing nearly 1.4 billion followers, required oxygen support on Friday and Saturday, but not on Sunday, when he participated in mass and divided his time between rest and prayer.
The Jesuit pontiff, who assumed his role in March 2013, receives treatment in a designated papal suite on the Gemelli’s tenth floor.
The Vatican has not released any photos or videos of Pope Francis since he was hospitalized on February 14 with a severe lung infection, marking the longest public absence of his 12-year papacy.
(With inputs from agencies)