I had a 1st rib resection(left side) 3 weeks ago. I had the surgery scheduled at Johns Hopkins, but, decided to have a local surgeon do it instead so we could be close to home. Big mistake! The surgeon damaged both nerves and muscles during the surgery. It has been hell, I was released from the hospital 2 days after surgery, then readmitted 2 days later because the pain was so out of control. They kept me for a week trying everything they could to control the pain. They even tried a Fentanyl patch, which did not help. They sent me to a Pain Management Dr. yesterday who may install a pump for pain meds if this latest round of drugs doesn't help.

I would love to hear from anyone who has gone through this. It's devastating to think I may have life-long pain because I picked the wrong surgeon.

I'm very sorry to hear this. I will keep you in my thoughts.

Take care,
Kelly

Sorry to hear this. Hang in there!

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm really sorry for what u have gone through. One thing I want to let u know, don't give up. Just because that surgeon made a mistake, doesn't mean it can't be corrected. If u can go back to John Hopkins, go back and explain to them what happen. There is always someone that can correct someone else's mistake. Keep fighting, and don't stop seeking others opinons about your situation. I've been in your shoes. I'm praying for u, and May GOD bless u.

So sorry to read this.

Perhaps after you heal a bit more things will calm down, but if not contact a few of the best TOS drs on our list to see if they can be of help.

I know there were posts in the past stating that Brantigan (Denver) often would repair others drs errors. I'm sure it depends on many factors on a case by case basis.

Thank you all. I'm going to give it more time, and if it does not improve, I'll go back to the Hopkins surgeon and see what can be done. I forgot to mention in my first post that the surgery also left me with a winged scapula on that side, which is very painful. It seems that anything that could go wrong with this surgery did. I understand now why so many of you who have been dealing with this for years advise others not to rush into surgery. Wish I would have listened.

Im sorry for what you have been through.... Prayers that you heal or at least get the pain under control for now.