MyLungCancerTeam

Are you experiencing a fractured rib 18 months after lung cancer surgery that showed up on a PET scan?

Rib fractures and pain can happen after lung cancer surgery, even long after the procedure. Some lung cancer surgeries involve moving your ribs apart to reach your lungs, which can lead to rib injuries or ongoing Show Full Answer

Are you experiencing a fractured rib 18 months after lung cancer surgery that showed up on a PET scan?

Rib fractures and pain can happen after lung cancer surgery, even long after the procedure. Some lung cancer surgeries involve moving your ribs apart to reach your lungs, which can lead to rib injuries or ongoing discomfort.

MyLungCancerTeam members have shared similar experiences with persistent rib issues after surgery. One member mentioned still feeling discomfort in their rib cage five years after surgery.

Since your bone scan was inconclusive, it's important to work with your medical team to determine the cause. They can help figure out whether this is:

- A delayed complication from surgery
- Related to bone metastases (since rib pain can sometimes indicate cancer spread to bones)
- From another cause unrelated to your cancer

Your doctor may recommend additional testing or imaging to get a clearer picture. Make sure to describe your pain in detail - where it is, how severe it feels (on a scale of 0-10), and when it happens.

Given that this showed up on a routine PET scan but the bone scan wasn't clear, following up with your oncology team is crucial to rule out any concerning causes and get appropriate pain management if needed.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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