Dr Luigi Carbone and Professor Stefano Margaritora have issued the following statement regarding the Pope’s post-operative recovery:

In accordance with the programme, the Holy Father has undergone a follow-up chest X-ray. The examination confirmed that his post-operative recovery is progressing very well.

However, given the short time that has elapsed since the operation, the attending doctors have, as a precautionary measure, advised against the planned helicopter journey on 27 October.