Hello everyone

Today is 4 months post op for my right cervical rib removal and first day back at work...actually the doc left in the cervical rib and removed a fibrous band instead.

Immediately post op I had most of my right arm and chest numb. The arm regained feeling within a couple weeks but the chest is taking much longer (1 cm per month)...so in 6 more months is should be all gone. It's been difficult getting any relief from the paresthesia in my chest - this would be the worst part of the surgery itself and way better than full TOS. I wasn't able to return to work for 16 weeks instead of 8 due to the intense paresthesia but also the limited range of motion in the neck (mobility has greatly improved after only 6 physio treatments)


My right arm is so much better than it was pre-op.
Pre-op my right arm was mostly at a 10 or 9 pain level constantly- now I'd say 0 or 1 - only a couple of sharp shooting pains in 4 months and almost no tingling...what a difference from the left arm that hasn't had the operation! I do get some muscle tiredness though - from being able to have my arm above my side and doing my own gardening, laundry...I'm starting to remember what life was before TOS and the muscle tiredness will pass.

The surgery was the best thing I could have done - wished I did it earlier!
The pain immediately post op was manageable but wasn't the easiest - thankfully it didn't last that long. The scar across my collar bone is starting to be less and less visible - make up helps too.

I still have need the same surgery on my left side in Novemeber . I need to have 20 weeks between returning to work and the next surgery to recieve wages while on medical leave or I would have it done next month. I don't know if the doc will actually remove the cervical rib on the left side or leave it in as in the right - depends on what he and his team see during the actual operation.

I wanted to add my success story to let others know that there are ppl that find relief from TOS- whether partial or full, but either is a great improvement from living with the constant pain, meds and dealing with their affect on our lives. I admit I was doubtful going into the procedure - especially after reading several threads of those who did not have success with surgery. I did have faith in and trusted my throacic surgeon and his team though - Dr Sean McFadden, Calgary Canada.

I hope and pray that everyone living with TOS finds relief and can return to a normal life.

Best of Luck to all
Michelle

I am VERY happy for you.

THe way you describe your recovery is not very similar to most stories I read, so when I do see a great success story it is a nice reminder to others who are scared of surgery (without a good reason) that surgery CAN do wonders.

Keep in touch with us as you progress, and now that you know you have TOS, do not allow employers to push you too hard so that you develop it again. KEep good boundaries for your own health.