Sergio Mattarella, the President of the Republic of Italy, underwent heart surgery for the implantation of a pacemaker on April 15, 2025. The procedure was performed at 8:00 PM at the Santo Spirito hospital in Rome, where he was admitted earlier that evening. Following the operation, Mattarella returned to the cardiology department under the care of Professor Roberto Ricci.
According to the Quirinale, the official residence of the President, Mattarella spent a "tranquil" night and is currently "totally asymptomatic and in stable clinical condition." The surgery was planned in advance, alleviating concerns about its urgency. Reports indicate that the president might be discharged as early as April 17, allowing him to spend the Easter holidays in his hometown of Palermo.
Prior to his hospitalization, Mattarella had a full day of work, including a meeting with Milojko Spajić, the President of Montenegro, around 6:00 PM. His commitment to fulfilling his duties right up until the surgery reflects his dedication to his role.
The pacemaker procedure, which is now considered routine, was necessary due to underlying cardiac issues. As explained by medical professionals, the device helps regulate heart rhythm, particularly in older patients where natural pacemaker cells may deteriorate. Professor Niccolò Marchionni, President of the Italian Society of Geriatric Cardiology, remarked, "The pacemaker is among the interventions with the best risk-benefit ratio in cardiology. The risk is minimal, and the benefits are substantial." He noted that patients typically resume normal activities within 48 hours post-surgery.
After the surgery, Mattarella was already active, reading newspapers on his iPad the following morning. The Quirinale has confirmed that he is closely monitored and will resume his official functions as soon as his recovery allows.
Despite the surgery, Mattarella’s agenda remains packed. He is scheduled to meet with representatives of the Combatant and Arms Associations on April 23, marking the 80th anniversary of the Liberation. Furthermore, he is expected to participate in the Liberation Day celebrations in Genoa on April 25, 2025.
Political reactions to Mattarella's surgery have been overwhelmingly supportive. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her hopes for a swift recovery, stating, "Italy awaits him soon, with the strength and dedication he always shows." Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani echoed similar sentiments, wishing to see Mattarella back at work immediately after Easter.
Furthermore, applause for the president's health was heard in the Chamber of Deputies, where members expressed their best wishes. Luca Zaia, the President of the Veneto region, also conveyed his support, emphasizing Mattarella's attentiveness to the needs of the Veneto people.
In summary, President Sergio Mattarella's planned heart surgery has concluded successfully, and he is recovering well. The operation was a precautionary measure, and there are no signs of complications. As he prepares to return to his duties, the nation looks forward to his continued leadership during a critical time.
