Dr. Andrews confirms initial report: No surgery

by David Fucillo on Oct 3, 2007 9:05 PM PDT in San Francisco 49ers News

Tip of the cap to mirage for posting this article two posts down.

Dr. Andrews confirmed late today that the team's diagnosis was correct and two ligaments are torn, NOT two tendons that Ed Werder was reporting and I initially posted.

Andrews got back to the 49ers late Wednesday afternoon and confirmed the team's diagnosis of a Grade 3 separation, meaning two ligaments in his right shoulder are torn. Andrews did not recommend a course of treatment beyond what the 49ers are already doing.

Smith will be evaluated today when swelling in his shoulder is expected to subside. Smith attended practice, his right arm in a sling.

"His spirits are great," Dilfer said. "He's doing everything in his power to get back."

Hopefully we've passed through the last loop in the roller coaster and things will settle down. I certainly don't have a problem with Dilfer making the start this week, but at the same time you never want to see your big money investment get hurt.

The team will know more after the swelling goes down tomorrow, so if I don't get any updated information up (likely to be found in Matt Maiocco's blog), feel free to post in a diary or in this thread.

[EDITOR'S NOTE - 11:30PM] - Speaking of Matt Maiocco's blog, he has posted an interview with a leading shoulder expert.

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No imminent QB signing

Reports Matt Maiocco, which is a good sign in that it means the Niners are confident that Smith will be back soon than later.

Saw a friend last night who was saying 10-6 a month ago. He's moping and saying 6-10 now.

Hey, who knows? I was leaning towards 9-7, and they still could do that if they can get their offensive line working.

by Bob In Pacifica on Oct 4, 2007 8:20 AM PDT reply actions

Imagine being in Alex Smith's shoes...

As per Matt Maiocco's blog:

Yesterday, Smith's drive to work was a bit hectic, he said. He heard the reports on ESPN that he would require immediate season-ending surgery and he thought maybe he had yet to be informed of the news. The report turned out to be inaccurate.

by sfgfan on Oct 4, 2007 1:53 PM PDT reply actions

hectic

It's like when Dunleavy was traded by Nellie last year. Nellie was on the radio talking about the deal and apparently he got a call from Dunleavy asking about the deal. Nellie told him he'd call him back.

Niners Nation - The premier 49ers blog on the Internet!

by David Fucillo on Oct 4, 2007 1:58 PM PDT up reply actions