Rob Gronkowski injury: Patriots TE needs 4th arm surgery, per report

There appears to be no escaping another surgery for New England's star tight end.

By Alex Welch May 16, 2013, 8:18pm EDT

Rob Gronkowski was hoping to avoid undergoing another surgery, but it now appears certain he will require a fourth operation on his left forearm, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com. He is expected to have the procedure done Monday.

More: For more Patriots coverage, check out Pats Pulpit

Rapoport says Gronkowski had X-rays and was examined yesterday. Once doctors take a closer look at his forearm, a timetable for his return will finally be known.

If Gronk's arm is still showing infection, he could need a fifth surgery, which would delay his return and likely force him to miss training camp. If the infection is clear, he should be ready to go when camp rolls around.

Everyone around the Patriots organization has to hope Gronk doesn't suffer any other setbacks. His return to 100 percent from the initial forearm break continues to be an arduous process. More details about his condition should be known by the beginning of next week.