Roma defender Leandro Castan undergoes successful brain surgery
Roma have confirmed that defender Leandro Castan's brain operation on Wednesday has been a complete success.
The Brazilian underwent a three-and-a-half hour procedure in the Italian capital and is now breathing unaided after coming round from the surgery.
Castan has not played since being withdrawn at half-time in September 13's Serie A clash with Empoli complaining of dizziness.
It was subsequently revealed that he was suffering from a condition known as cavernoma, which involves swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid on the brain.
Consequently, the 28-year-old was scheduled to have an operation at 07:00GMT at the Quisisana ai Parioli clinic in Rome on Wednesday in order to resolve the neurological issue, which is considered serious but not life-threatening.
Indeed, according to early reports, Castan, who is expected to be hospitalized for a week after the surgery, could return to action in five months, which would put him in a position to play some part in the final stages of the 2014-15 season.
Regardless, Roma boss Rudi Garcia has already stated that the club will wait as long as it takes for the center-back to return to full fitness.
Leandro Castan joined the Giallorossi from Corinthians for 5.5 million euros (£4.3m) in 2012 and, after a slow start to his career at the Stadio Olimpico, he established himself as one of the top defenders in Serie A, playing a key role in last season's surprise Scudetto challenge.
