NEBRASKA -- The Governor's office released a statement saying on Gov. Jim Pillen's rib fixation surgery. 

They statement said that the surgery was a success and Pillen was returned to step-down unit. This is where he will continue to recover from the horse-riding accident he had on Sunday. 

On Wednesday, the Governor's office said that Pillen's recovery has progressed well. They said there has been no new issues with the injuries to his kidney and lung, and his spleen continues to heal following the coil embolization procedure he had shortly after being admitted into the hospital. 

Pillen had the surgery on his ribs Wednesday afternoon, and was expected to take about four hours. The surgery involved stabilizing the broken ribs with metal plates. 

The Governor is expected to stay in the hospital for several more days for recovery and observation.

The Governor's office said that because Pill was under anesthesia, Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly was acting Governor during the procedure.