Nintendo's president Satoru Iwata will not attend the company's annual general meeting of shareholders this month as he is recovering from major surgery.

The 54-year-old is recuperating after an operation to remove a growth found in his bile duct.

Iwata made the announcement in an open letter published on Nintendo's site this morning.

"Today, there is one thing that I would like to share with you," Iwata wrote. "Recently, as the result of one of my routine physical examinations, an issue was detected. Following a more detailed examination, a growth was found in my bile duct.

"In general, it is said that a bile duct growth can be difficult-to-treat, partly because of the difficulty of detecting it early. In my case, luckily, it was detected very early and I had no symptoms.

"I was counseled that removal at an early stage would be the desirable medical option. Therefore I had surgery last week, and I came through it well, as predicted.

"I have already resumed my business by email and by other means, but it is anticipated that a little more time is needed for me to return to my regular work schedule.

"As the president of the company, I regret that I cannot attend the meeting. However, I understand that I have to prioritise my medical treatment and to recover as soon as possible so that I will again be able to do my best to help the company to grow. I hope that you understand."

The news follows Nintendo's earlier confirmation that Iwata would not attend E3 this year due to health reasons - the first time he has missed the show in several years.

Iwata did appear in a segment of Nintendo's pre-recorded E3 2014 broadcast, although it is not clear at what time this was filmed.

Eurogamer wishes him a speedy recovery.