Luke Hodge has undergone surgery to repair cartilage damage to his shoulder.

Having sustained the injury on his return to pre-season training, Hodge aggravated the shoulder again last week, with scans revealing the damaged cartilage required surgery.

The decision to undergo surgery was taken following consultation with a shoulder specialist, to repair the cartilage damage now rather than risk the same injury being an issue during the season.

The Hawks vice captain will miss Hawthorn’s training camp to Coffs Harbour this week, however, is expected to be available for the start of the 2009 season.