South Africa captain Jean de Villiers could miss next year's Rugby World Cup after being ruled out for eight months with separate knee injuries.
The 33-year-old inside centre suffered a dislocated kneecap and damaged ligaments after falling awkwardly in a ruck during Saturday's 12-6 defeat to Wales in Cardiff.
"We are currently consulting with the best specialists in South Africa to determine the best way to approach the surgery as there are potentially a few options available," Springbok team doctor Craig Roberts said in a statement.
"It's imperative that the best course of action is decided on so that Jean can start recovery and rehabilitation as soon as possible to give him the best chance to be fit for the World Cup.
"At this stage it's still difficult to determine how long he will be out of action, but it would probably be at least eight months."
The tournament is scheduled to get underway in England next September, and losing De Villiers, who has won over 100 caps, would represent a big blow for the 1995 world champions.
Shane Callaghan
