Extra Ribs Hamper Singer

Posted by Sarah Canice Funke Dec 8, 2007

Opera singer Maria Field tried to sing opera semi-professionally for 17 years, but finally succumbed to perpetual bad health and left the stage. Even as a child, she was weak and sickly. When she began singing at age 25, she visited doctors, looking for a solution to her health problems. Yet no one could figure out what was causing her poor health. However, two years ago, an x-ray revealed that she possessed two extra ribs which were narrowing her chest cavity.

A rather finicky but successful operation in May removed one of the ribs, and the second rib was removed in November. Now Field can use her diaphragm properly, an essential action for any singer, but especially for opera singers who wish to have their voices carry across stage.

The vascular surgeon who removed her ribs, Mr John Thompson, performed the surgery while listening to a CD of Field's music. Now at the age of 42, Field hopes to return to her passion professionally.

For more information, please read the BBC story.