Question
Is having a rib completely removed a risky surgery? Is it safe, or would you say it's dangerous? Is there usually post-op complications? What is usually the recovery time for something like this? I may have to have my 10th rib completely removed.  

Answer
Kristy:

Thanks for writing!

Any surgery is risky. Anytime one cuts thru the main defense of the body--the skin--one has invaded the body.

You do not go into why you must have your 10th rib completely removed. Many times, a surgeon will remove a rib because it keeps hurting and they do surgery. If the only tool you have is a hammer, every job looks like a nail!

The post-op complications and recovery times depend on your health and the skill of the surgeon.

I would try conservative care first. Go to www.sorsi.com, www.soto-usa.com and www.icak.com and look for a good chiropractor near you.  A good chiropractor can very often set the rib back againist the bones it should be touching and relieve the pain.

Does this answer your question?

Dr. Rozeboom