Examination Reveals Pope's Wrist Surgery "Went Well"

(RV - 25 July 09) Pope Benedict had a scheduled x-ray and check up this morning in the town of Colonia Salesiana which is near to his residence in the village of Les Combes.

The examination took place after the Holy Father had surgery on a fractured wrist which he broke last week.

According to a statement from the Holy See Press office the visit this morning lasted half an hour and went extremely well.

The check up also showed that following the operation the Pope’s wrist was healing as expected.

Present at the examination were two Vatican doctors Patrizio Polisca and Doctor Franco Berti as well as orthopaedic Doctor Vincenzo Sessa who will accompany the Holy Father when he goes to Castlegandolfo and on his return to Rome.

At the end of the check up Pope Benedict thanked all of the medical staff involved in the examination.

On Sunday the Pope is due to recite the Angelus in a field at the locality of Colonia Salesiana.

The Director of the Holy See Press office Father Federico Lombardi says it looks set to be a great day and audio and video equipment has already been put in place for the event.

Father Lombardi adds that many groups of faithful and religious communities from various parts of the Valle d’Aosta region will be taking part.

Before the Angelus the Bishop of Aosta Giuseppe Anfossi will celebrate Mass.