Leeds full-back Iain Balshaw could miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his abdominal injury. The 26-year-old, who has been plagued by injuries, has not played since the Scarlets defeat in October.
It was hoped his abdominal injury would clear up with treatment but Leeds decided surgery was the best option.
"We're not putting any time scale on when he will return but we're confident we have taken the right course," said rugby director Phil Davies.
"We are going to make sure he is 100% before he returns to training and playing and ensure that he will be able to have a long-term future at the club.
"I know it has been a frustrating time for Iain and the injury has been a difficult one to pinpoint."
Leeds say they will monitor his progress and have not given up on him playing again this season.
Balshaw was a member of England's World Cup-winning squad in 2003 but a long list of injuries stalled his career.
He was recalled to the England side for this year's Six Nations after a year out of the squad but suffered further injuries this summer.
Balshaw missed the British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand because of a torn thigh muscle before breaking his nose in a pre-season friendly.
MMIX
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