Hector Barbera undergoes surgery, out for 1-2 months
The Pramac Ducati rider fractured his left tibia and fibula in an unspecified 'training incident' two days ago (see previous story).
The Spaniard, who claimed his first MotoGP front row start last time at Mugello, has now undergone 'successful' surgery to have a titanium plate and screws inserted into his left leg.
The operation was conducted at Barcelona's Instituto Universitario USP Dexeus by specialist surgeon Doctor Xavier Mir, who gave the following statement:
“The surgery had good results. We are confident that Héctor will be able to leave the hospital in 48 hours and can begin light physical activity in seven days.
“It is difficult to say how long the post surgery rehabilitation will take.
“We need to evaluate the progress of the patient, but I think that we can reasonably think that he will [be] able to run a race in 4 or 6 weeks, according to his feedback."
That timeframe naturally rules Barbera out of the US Grand Prix at Laguna Seca next weekend, but also casts serious doubt on Barbera's ability to ride in the following Indianapolis event, from August 17-19.
“Doctor Mir and Doctor Jimeno have done a great job. I'm feeling quite good, still a dizzy from the anaesthesia, but it's normal," said Barbera.
“Obviously I'm disappointed about the incident. It happened in the worst period possible. I had a great feeling both with my bike and with my crew. In the last three races I was able to enjoy while I was riding and fighting with the Factory riders to achieve the best result possible.
“I could catch other brilliant results in the next round in Laguna Seca and Indy, but it's life and now I have to think only about my injury and my rehabilitation.”
Pramac have not yet commented on a possible replacement.
