Raptors' Jorge Garbajosa Injury

TORONTO (CP) - Jorge Garbajosa was recently evaluated in Toronto and was put through a battery of clinical and functional tests by members of the Raptors medical, training and coaching staffs. Jorge was able to perform on-court drills with a relatively high level of proficiency and without pain.

Doctors concluded that overall the ankle joint is structurally intact and the soft tissue injury seems to be healing well. Unfortunately however, a detailed review and assessment of the various images and scans taken have revealed insufficient healing of the fractured fibula.

Under the present circumstances, which include the inability to obtain adequate insurance coverage, the Toronto Raptors will not consent to Garbajosa’s participation in the upcoming European Championships 2007.

"Despite Jorge feeling and looking ready to play, the medical findings suggest otherwise,” said Raptors President and General Manager Bryan Colangelo. “We have consulted with a number of foot and ankle specialists and have concluded that there is an elevated risk for Jorge to compete at this time. Regarding his eventual return to competitive basketball, we are currently evaluating and discussing treatment options with Jorge and his representatives which include both surgical and non-surgical paths.

"We know this decision is disappointing for Jorge and the Spanish Basketball Federation, but we feel strongly that this is in the best interest of Jorge Garbajosa to continue a long term and productive basketball career.”


source : NBA.com