Rib removal during mastectomy

Debbie, were you told this by a surgeon? If so, I suggest getting a second and even a third opinion. I'll tell you the truth, I've never heard of this. It sounds drastic to me but I'm not a doctor which is why I suggest another opinion. Did you ask why scar tissue attached to a rib means that the rib must be removed when the breast is removed? Why can't the scar tissue be cut away from the rib?

It sounds like you have a lot of questions to ask. I wish you the best as you look into this.

Leah

Hi, Debbie ~ So sorry you're dealing with 2nd round of bc.  My reaction to your question is the same as Leah's.  What your surgeon is suggesting is by no means common, and actually sounds a bit strange.  It makes me wonder if he/she suspects the bc has gone into that rib.  Have they suggested that could be a possibility?  Have you had an MRI?  Pet or Bone Scan?  

I know you've used the term "breast surgeon" in your post, but is this a breast (only) surgeon at a leading (e.g. NCI-designated) cancer center, or a general surgeon who does breast surgery?  Was your initial surgery a lumpectomy with radiation?   And was the chemo you mentioned neo-adjuvant to this recurrence?  Perhaps a few more details, if you feel like sharing them, would help us better understand and be able to offer more thoughts on your situation.     Deanna

Hi Debbie,

I know your post is from a few years ago, but I was wondering how your surgery went. My mom has cancer in the scar from a previous surgery that has adhered to a few ribs. Her treatment plan includes chemo and the removal of a couple ribs during radical mastectomy. How was your recovery? Do you still have any pain?

Thanks in advance:)

Thanks for taking the time to write me:). I'm assuming I'll get the same feedback as the original poster did 5 years ago.

Take care:)