Third Rib Non-Union Fracture

[jenb373]

My question is regarding if Cleveland Clinic has a Trauma Department that could work with a Trauma Department in Oregon.  I have had a broken third rib under my shoulder blade for three years.....i have had the nerve ablated and it still continues to give me some problems....the ablation took the terrible edge off...however I am looking for a cure.  I am 35 and do not believe I should have to live with this.  In the day and time when we can transplant organs.....i do not understand why we cannot resect a rib, even if it is under the shoulder blade?   Thorascopic Surgery I am sure has come a long way.......I am looking for help......I have been to the CCF Pain Clinic and Epidurals helped me....but the pain comes back......can we find a trauma surgeon that would work with this Dr. Mayberry in Oregon?  Thanks.....

[Calypso8]

Years ago I sustained several non-union rib fractures which subsequently led to nine. I underwent two procedures to resect my ribs that resulted in a flail chest,a huge hematoma that morphed into a fibrothorax.  My scapula then subluxed into my thoracic cavity after the Gore-Tex graft placed over my lung gave way.  I went to the Cleveland Clinic for salvage surgery, i.e. rib transplants, replacement of the graft with reinforcement.  Unfortunately, despite their heroic efforts, it collapsed.  I suffer indescribable pain, spasming and shortness of breath. My spine is curving and I've developed torticolis.  Narcotics offer little to no relief, yet terrible side effects, especially when trying to withdraw. Non-narcotics, such as Lyrica and the like are way two sedating besides ineffective.  No one here will attempt a nerve block or RFA, due to my distorted anatomy, so I am told.  I am at the end of my rope.  I had heard of some experimental work being done at The Oregon Health Sciences Center. Can you offer any info.

[crashtestjeep]

I am almost 32, female and broke all my right ribs 5 yrs ago when ejected from my jeep wearing a seatbelt. Ill stick to just the rib injuries since thats what ur here for. I still have 6 non unions. Non-operable. So....I FEEL ur pain, trust me. I have opted gainst ablation/cryoblation   due to "it always coming back". What I CAN help you with (esp since you mentioned DR Mayberry in OREGON) is his new study-not sure if its still open and if not, contact ORTHOFIX and ask them about it. Dr Mayberry is doing a study on nonunion rib fractures, ten lucky people will get his new rib-lock surgery. The others, including myself( I cant opt for surgery due to fractues too close to spine) get to try orthofix's new bone-growth stimulator for ribs. ITS WORKING! you dont feel a thing, only wear it under clothes for 3 hrs a day. I had high hopes nd got myself into this living in NC bc I heard about dr mayberry's study and wrote him, sent him my studies and boom, im in. I had used one for a nonunion collar bone and it worked so....if i were you, id contact both Mayberry and ORTHOFIX today!!!!