Pope in good general condition' after surgery to remove intestinal scar tissue, repair hernia

Pope Francis’ was in “good general condition” Thursday, alert and breathing on his own, following a three-hour operation to remove intestinal scar tissue and repair a hernia in his abdominal wall, the Vatican said.

The 86-year-old Francis rested “extensively” during a peaceful night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital and was spending his first full day after the surgery observing the “necessary post-operative rest,” the Vatican said in a statement.

“The pope is informed of the messages of closeness and affection that have come in the last few hours and expresses his gratitude, while asking for continued prayers for him,” the statement said.