Rep. Jason Chaffetz Jason ChaffetzThe myth of the conservative bestseller Elijah Cummings, Democratic chairman and powerful Trump critic, dies at 68 House Oversight panel demands DeVos turn over personal email records MORE (R-Utah) said Wednesday he will be out of Washington for three to four weeks amid a crucial work period in Congress.

Chaffetz made the announcement on Instagram, saying that he needs immediate surgery to remove screws and pins from his foot or he “could be at risk for serious infection.”

“My recovery is expected to take three to four weeks,” he wrote alongside X-ray images showing the 14 screws and a metal plate in his foot.

“I’m sorry to miss the important work we are doing in Washington. This is not an opportune time to be away but medical emergencies are never convenient."

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The injury occurred about 12 years ago, he said, when he shattered several foot bones after falling off a ladder.

The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee chairman shocked Washington earlier this month when he announced he would not run for reelection and might leave Congress before his term ends.

He has not announced his future plans, though he’s said he’s considering private-sector jobs.

He said last week that he wouldn't be on the ballot for House or Senate in 2018. But he didn't rule out running for public office, including governor, in the future.