COLUMBUS, OHIO - Columbus Blue Jackets center Mark Letestu underwent surgery today to repair groin and abdominal injuries and is expected to be sidelined approximately six weeks, club General Manager Jarmo Kekalainen announced today. The surgery was performed by Dr. William Meyers at the Vincera Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Letestu tallied three goals and two assists for five points in nine games before being sidelined in late-October. The 29-year-old has registered 54-65-119 and 53 penalty minutes in 273 career NHL games, including 39-51-90 and 36 penalty minutes in 188 games with the Blue Jackets. Last season, he set career highs for assists, points and games played with 12-22-34 in 82 games. He added 1-1-2 in six playoff outings.

The Blue Jackets return to action on Thursday when they visit the Florida Panthers. Game time from BB&T Center is 7:30 p.m. ET. Live coverage on FOX Sports Ohio begins with the Blue Jackets Live pre-game show at 7 p.m. The game will also be broadcast live on the Scioto Downs Blue Jackets Radio Network, including flagship station Sports Radio 97.1 The Fan, and online at BlueJackets.com.