Skil-Shimano’s Bert De Backer will undergo surgery at the Máxima Medical Centre in Veldhoven, Netherlands next month. The 25-year-old is suffering from a twisted artery in his left groin. Team-mate Kenny van Hummel had a similar operation at the end of the 2007 season.
A twisted groin artery restricts the blood flow to the leg. In the event of effort, that may result in a lack of oxygen, causing acid to build up in the muscles faster than usual. Unfortunately for the team, De Backer is not expected to be back in racing shape until the summer.
His surgery is scheduled for the 22nd of February.