The 84-year-old pontiff was admitted to Rome's A. Gemelli Polyclinic on Sunday to receive treatment for a condition known as symptomatic diverticular stenosis of the colon. This results in a narrowing of the colon that can cause pain, bloating and bowel movement complications. On Monday, the Vatican confirmed the Pope was “in good, overall condition, alert" and breathing on his own.

       The operation lasted around three hours and was reportedly carried out by a surgical team of 10 people, led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the director of Gemelli’s digestive surgery department.

       It is believed the Argentine pontiff underwent a hemicolectomy, in which part of the colon is cut out and the ends are reconnected.

       He is staying in a special 10th floor suite the hospital reserves for use by the Vatican.

       Previous papal patients of the hospital include Pope John Paul II who stayed in the suite several times while being treated for various ailments.

       Pope Francis was inundated with messages from well-wishers, praying for his speedy recovery.

       The office of Italian prime minister Mario Draghi said he “expresses affectionate wishes for a rapid convalescence and quick healing.”

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       Italian President Sergio Mattarella offered an “affectionate thought” on behalf of all Italians, as he landed in Paris at the start of a state visit to France.

       He said he was wishing for “a good convalescence and even a speedier recovery” for the Pope.

       Just hours before his surgery, Francis addressed thousands of people in St Peter's Square for his Sunday blessing.

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       The Pope has already suspended all of his general and private audiences in July, which he does every year.

       The surgery appeared to be timed to coincide with a period in which his only public commitment was his Sunday blessing in St Peter's Square.

       It is the first time Francis has been admitted to hospital since his election in 2013.