In Play Magazine
Allen Park, Mich.— Detroit Lions QB Matthew Stafford underwent successful shoulder surgery today, the team announced. The surgery was performed by Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala.
The decision to have surgery came after consultation this week between Dr. Andrews and the Lions medical staff. Stafford’s most recent visit to Dr. Andrews was this past Monday.
STATEMENT FROM LIONS HEAD COACH JIM SCHWARTZ:
“After Matt hurt his shoulder in the Jets game he was examined by both our medical staff and Dr. Andrews. There was a consensus at the time to proceed with a rehabilitation program and not to have surgery.
“Subsequent evaluations toward the end of the season by our staff and Dr. Andrews also confirmed that Matt had been making good progress with his rehab. But after Matt’s most recent visit to Dr. Andrews, it was determined by Dr. Andrews that Matt’s healing process could be enhanced by undergoing surgery at this time.
“While continuing the rehab program (without surgery) was still a viable option, Matt decided to have the surgery now in order to ensure that he will have plenty of time to recover and rehab prior to the 2011 season. We have full confidence that Matt will be one-hundred percent before the start of training camp.”
STATEMENT FROM DR. JAMES ANDREWS:
“Matthew’s procedure (AC joint repair) today was very successful. It went very well. We now have plenty of time for a full recovery in order for him to get ready for next season. The procedure is the same one that we have successfully performed on a number of NFL quarterbacks. Matthew has one of the strongest arms in the League and I am confident that he will be as strong as ever.”
