WASHINGTON, D.C. - D.C. United forward Thiago Martins underwent additional surgery on Tuesday, the club announced today. Performed by team physician Christopher Annunziata, M.D. at Commonwealth Orthopedics in Fairfax, VA, the procedure attempted to relieve the symptoms of synovitis and chondromalacia in his left knee. Martins will continue therapy with the club and is expected to return to full activity in time for the 2005 preseason.
"We are pleased with the results of this surgery," said Dave Kasper, D.C. United Technical Director. "We're hopeful that Thiago will recover in time for the start of the 2005 MLS season."
During the surgery, Dr. Annunziata removed a foreign body from the medial joint line to alleviate inflammation of the joint linings. In addition, roughened cartilage was shaved from under the patella. As he recovers from the surgery, Martins will continue his rehabilitation program with the club, targeting a return during the 2005 pre-season.
Martins joined D.C. United as a free agent from the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (A-League) on September 11th, 2003. He made six appearances for United in 2003, starting four matches. Prior to joining the Black-and-Red, Martins completed a stellar year with the Riverhounds. He finished as the A-League's top scorer with 51 points on 22 goals and seven assists. The performance earned him honors as the A-League MVP for 2003.
