Does Rib Removal Surgery Pose Risk To Major Organs?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had this x-ray a few days ago, and here it is clear how wide my clavicle is and that my ribs are very close to my hip bone, for this reason you do not see a thinner waist, having this type of ribs so large and united, does it make it impossible to operate and have a lot of risk since several important organs were down?

A: Thank you for sending your picture and x-ray. Rib removal surgery does not pose any risk of organ injury, that is a common myth/misconception about the surgery.  I see nothing in your x-ray that would preclude you from having rib removal surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana