Young Sydney Swans defender Campbell Heath has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and will undergo LARS surgery in Sydney next Monday.

Heath, 19, who played two senior games in 2010, injured his left knee when he landed awkwardly at training last Friday.

Heath ruptured the same left knee ligament two years ago, not long after he was drafted to the Swans with pick 61 in the 2008 National Draft.

On that occasion, in early 2009,  he underwent conventional reconstruction surgery and then stayed at home in Victoria to complete his schooling. He moved to Sydney in late 2009 and returned to play in the 2010 pre-season period.

Swans doctor Nathan Gibbs said Heath and his family had considered a number of options during the past few days and decided to undergo the LARS (ligament augmentation and reconstruction system) procedure, which should see him return to play in 12 to 16 weeks.

Gibbs said the surgery would be performed in Sydney by Dr Danny Biggs. “Dr Biggs is very experienced in the procedure and has probably done more LARS operations than anyone else in Australia,’’ Gibbs said.

“We’re expecting good results for Campbell. It’s unfortunate that the conventional ligament repair he had previously on his left knee has re-ruptured.’’

Swans senior coach John Longmire said Heath’s determination, professionalism, and quality of character ensured he would give himself every chance of making a strong recovery.

Swans defender Nick Malceski was the first AFL player to undergo LARS surgery, after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in February, 2008.

Gibbs said the Club believed the LARS surgery was also the best option for Heath. “We have learned from our experience that the recovery time is exceptional, at three to four months instead of the player being out for nine to 12 months,’’ Gibbs said.

“So far in my experience with both Nick Malceski and patients at my clinic, the re-rupture rate after LARS surgery is no different to the conventional operation.’’