The Phoenix Suns announced today forward/center Amaré Stoudemire underwent surgery to repair a joint surface defect in his left knee this morning at Banner Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. The surgery was performed by Suns team physician Tom Carter. Carter treated a joint surface defect, roughly one centimeter in diameter on the medial (inside) side of the left knee.

“The surgery went well and other than the defect that we treated today, Amaré’s knee is remarkably and structurally healthy,” Carter said. “Given Amaré’s age (22), and the nominal size and location of the defect, I am confidant the microfracture procedure performed will allow a healthy and normal return to action.”

Stoudemire missed the last two days of training camp in Tucson after suffering left knee soreness. The defect was noted on an MRI scan several weeks prior to surgery and at that time Stoudemire was treated symptomatically. As symptoms elevated, the decision was made to operate and treat more aggressively, rather than have a potentially lingering issue all season and perhaps beyond.

Stoudemire’s anticipated return to competitive basketball is approximately four months.