Pope Francis has suffered "two episodes of acute respiratory failure", the Vatican has announced. In the latest health update this evening, the Vatican confirmed Francis underwent two bronchoscopies, with doctors adding his prognosis is "uncertain".

       The Vatican said the pontiff experienced “two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm.” It added “two bronchoscopies were therefore performed,” and doctors needed to “remove large secretions.” A bronchoscopy allows doctors to examine lungs and airways, which can be used to diagnose lung disease, treat lung conditions, or remove blockages.

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       Pope Francis had to return to “non-invasive mechanical ventilation" this afternoon, despite yesterday being “stable” and not requiring the “non-invasive mechanical ventilation” of previous days.

       The Vatican added he remained “alert, oriented and cooperative at all times," and the prognosis "remains guarded.”

       Pope Francis has been in Rome's Gemelli hospital since February 14, where he was initially admitted to treat bronchitis following days spent with difficulty breathing.

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       His condition has since remained "critical" and he has had to cancel multiple public events, including weekly mass at Saint Peter's Basilica.