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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Invasive Is The Procedure To Remove 14th Rib And Where Is It Located?

I was told that I have a 14 the rib which is basically a birth defect I am 64 and have had back problems most of my life. I now have spinal stenosis, 2 bulging discs and reg. arthritis all in the lumbar area. I have just started therapy and injection for the stenosis but it was tol to me that removal of the 14th rib, other issues I have could be reduced and the quality of life could be improved. Exactly where is this rib located? How invasive is the procedure to remove it?
Mon, 16 Feb 2015
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Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on HCM.
I can understand your situation and problem.
You are having accessory rib.
Ribs are originated from spine (from back) and inserted on sternum (in front of chest) through cartilage.
Rarely extra rib/ribs are originated from spine but did not rich to the sternum and hence they are known as floating ribs or accessory ribs.
Usually they are asymptomatic but whenever symptomatic (like back pain in your case), surgery is needed to remove accessory rib.
It is major operation and done under general anaesthesia. The approach is from the back.
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How Invasive Is The Procedure To Remove 14th Rib And Where Is It Located?

Thanks for your question on HCM. I can understand your situation and problem. You are having accessory rib. Ribs are originated from spine (from back) and inserted on sternum (in front of chest) through cartilage. Rarely extra rib/ribs are originated from spine but did not rich to the sternum and hence they are known as floating ribs or accessory ribs. Usually they are asymptomatic but whenever symptomatic (like back pain in your case), surgery is needed to remove accessory rib. It is major operation and done under general anaesthesia. The approach is from the back.