Updated

Celtics forward Chris Wilcox will miss the rest of the season because of an aortic abnormality.

Wilcox will have surgery later this month after a recent scan showed a significant enlargement of his aorta. The procedure is expected to completely repair the ailment, and the 10-year veteran is likely to continue his NBA career next season.

"While we are saddened that Chris will not be able to play again this season, the most important thing is his health, and we were fortunate to have access to an amazing team of specialists to evaluate Chris's case," said Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge.

Wilcox has averaged just over 17 minutes in 28 games this season -- his first in Boston. The 6-foot-10 University of Maryland product averaged 5.4 points and 4.4 rebounds off the bench.

The news comes several months after Celtics forward Jeff Green underwent successful surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm that was detected during a physical on December 9.