Leinster have revealed that Richardt Strauss is likely to miss the rest of the season.
The Irish international hooker has been told that he will need to undergo corrective surgery after a routine scan discovered a hole in his heart.
The South African is believed to have been born with the problem but Leinster say that the operation to repair the hole is a relatively simple one.
The 27-year-old has been told that he is facing several months out of action and is unlikely to return to action before the end of the season.
Meanwhile, Lote Tiquiri is set to miss this weekend's Heineken Cup clash with the Ospreys.
The former Australian international is facing several weeks out of action with a hamstring injury.
However, Leinster have been able to issue a more positive update on the fitness of Brian O'Driscoll.
The veteran centre is still a possibility for this Saturday's game as he recovers from a calf strain but head coach Matt O'Connor says he will have to train on Thursday to be in contention for the trip to Wales.
©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
