Does the lower rib grow back?

Question:

I've heard that we do have one bone in the body that does grow back if it is taken out, and that is the lower rib. Is it true? I know many have the lower rib removed for certain operations because of that, is there anyone in that circumstance here? :P

Answers:
Ribs, all ribs, can regrow if shortened properly...actually for the rib to regrow, the periosteum (the membrane that covers the bone) must be left intact. Ribs are often shortened in the treatment of scoliosis. It takes two to three months for the rib to regrow.

No, I have not had to have this done.

Actually, the lowest rib is called the " floating rib" because it is not attached to our chest cavity as the others are. So, if it needs to be removed, it is easily done since it's just hanging around anyway. This is the same rib that has been known to pierce a spleen in the event of an accident, as it can break easily because of its' position. It is basically, anchored to one side of the chest . I hope that this has helped.

Does the lower rib grow back?

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