"He is still getting help with his breathing and is sore but he's expected to make a full recovery," Parramatta general manager Michael Bell told Sydney's Daily Telegraph.
"The cardiovascular doctors at the RPA told us were it not for the actions of the Sydney University doctor, it could have been a very different story.
"They said she saved his life. We are obviously incredibly thankful, and it really is a great example of everyone just coming together from different clubs and working together to help this kid."
Dr Rae was pleased she'd picked up the tension pneumothorax and admitted it was the first time she had performed the lifesaving procedure in her medical career.
"He was having a lot of trouble breathing and was in a lot of pain so I am just grateful that I was able to think of that (tension pneumothorax), and we went ahead and it was the right thing," Dr Rae said.
"I'm obviously very pleased to hear he is doing well."
The Parramatta club posted an update on their Facebook page explaining that Vatuvei was on the mend.
"He has a drainage tube coming out of his lungs so they can monitor its function. The first thing he said to us is that he'll be right to play against Manly after the bye weekend," the statement read.
"His Mum and Club have other ideas. Andrew asked to pass on his thanks to those who helped him on field and who came to see him in hospital.
" He has a long road ahead but we'll be by his side the whole time. Please also spare a thought for his family and girlfriend."
Meanwhile, 29-year-old cousin Manu made a successful comeback from his own sternum injury in the Warriors' 24-20 win over the Newcastle Knights yesterday.
'The Beast' suffered his injury in the Warriors' win over Cronulla on May 9 and sat out the next game against Parramatta a fortnight ago.
He scored a first half try against the Knights but finished the match sore after taking another knock to his chest, although he is in no doubt for their next match against South Sydney in Perth on Saturday.
