Roscommon man becomes first patient to undergo pioneering rib fracture surgery 

A Ballintubber man who sustained multiple rib fractures following a fall has become the first patient to undergo pioneering rib fracture surgery at University Hospital Galway.

Thanks to a pioneering surgical procedure for the treatment of rib fractures, a CB3 procedure, Desmond Egan received a stronger and more secure repair, supporting a smoother and safer recovery.

University Hospital Galway has become the first in Ireland to introduce the convergent biaxial 3-dimensional (CB3) fixation.

Specifically designed for rib fractures to make rib fracture surgery safer and more efficient, this innovative approach, the hospital says, delivers a stronger, more reliable repair than traditional methods, particularly in areas where the bone is under pressure or weakened.

It reduces operative risks while providing stronger support for healing and simplifies the implantation process, allowing plates to be placed at all locations of the chest wall without the need for large incisions. It enables quicker implantation, which reduces anaesthesia time and enhances overall surgical efficiency.

By improving stability and surgical precision, the CB3 procedure can shorten recovery times and enhance outcomes for patients with serious rib injuries.

Speaking after his surgery, Mr Egan said: “I am very grateful to Professor Alan Soo and his team for all they have done for me. My recovery is going very well, I’m very happy with everything, and I just want to say thank you to everyone involved in my care.”

Professor Alan Soo, consultant cardiothoracic surgeon and lead of the procedure, highlighted the significance of this development: “Rib fractures are very common, particularly in the West of Ireland, where we frequently treat injuries resulting from farming and construction accidents. We are proud to be the first hospital in the country to adopt the CB3 procedure.

“Its advanced design enhances patient safety and surgical precision, helping to reduce risk, minimise painkiller use, lower the rate of post-injury lung complications such as pneumonia, and shorten hospital stays.”

Hospital manager, Chris Kane, added: “University Hospital Galway is committed to bringing the latest surgical innovations to our patients. The introduction of this new surgical procedure demonstrates our ongoing dedication to improving patient outcomes and providing innovative, patient-focused care for those recovering from serious injuries.”