Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen was hospitalized for five nights after a horse-riding accident that left him with seven broken ribs, injuries to his spleen and kidney, and a fractured vertebrae in his lower back. He underwent two surgeries, including a rib fixation surgery that placed nine titanium plates in his chest. Despite being in discomfort, Pillen has been an “ideal patient” and is eager to recover.
Dr. Zach Bauman, who performed the rib fixation surgery, stated that Pillen had a lot of movement in his rib fractures before the surgery but has since been doing well with restored respiratory function. Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly served as active governor during Pillen’s hospitalization, as required by the Nebraska Constitution. Pillen expressed a desire to get back on his horse, but his doctors will monitor his progress before allowing him to do so.
Pillen made arrangements to work from his hospital room during his stay, showing dedication to his duties as governor despite his injuries. The surgeries were successful in stabilizing his injuries, and Pillen is expected to be released from the hospital soon.
