Pope Francis is to undergo a laparotomy and abdominal wall surgery on Wednesday afternoon at Gemelli hospital, Rome.
The Vatican said he is expected to stay in hospital for days to recover from the hernia operation.
The hernia is “causing recurrent, painful and worsening” symptoms, added Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni.
The 86-year-old has faced a series of health issues in recent years and uses a cane and a wheelchair due to a persistent knee ailment.
