Team doctors had said it was possible that the tumor was a form of low-grade thyroid cancer. Results of pathology testing to determine whether the tumor was malignant will be available within 7-10 days.

“Even if it is found to be cancerous, we do not expect that he will need radiation or chemotherapy, and we anticipate a complete recovery,” said Dr. Dharmesh Vyas, the Penguins’ team physician. “The surgery went well and Olli is resting comfortably.”

Maatta, 20, is expected to be able to return to the lineup within four weeks.

The surgery was performed by UPMC head and neck surgeon Dr. Robert Ferris.