He was scheduled for rib surgery on Christmas Day in the afternoon ... involves stabilizing the broken ribs using metal plates," the release states. According to the release, Pillen is expected ...

Pillen, 68, will need to be under anesthesia while doctors install metal plates to stabilize his seven broken ribs. Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly will take on the role of acting governor during the surgery.

Surgery typically involves removal of the offending ... from pushing on the nerve in the back after it is cut out. The cartilage and ribs are secured with a dissolvable plate to allow the cartilage to ...