Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on Tuesday.

Westbrook tore the meniscus in his right knee in the NBA playoffs last season.

“Russell has been incredible in his work and rehabilitation. He has been pain-free and has performed at a high level during practice, but has experienced recent swelling that had not subsided,” Sam Presti said. “After careful consideration and recommendations from the medical team, we elected to do the procedure today based on our consulting physician’s belief that the swelling would be alleviated, and in turn give Russell the best chance for sustained performance throughout the season and beyond.

"During the procedure it was determined that the source of swelling was due to a loose stitch, and fortunately we were also able to confirm that the meniscus has healed properly.”

Westbrook is expected to miss the first 4-6 weeks of the 2013-14 regular season.

Westbrook had been saying in recent days that he was unsure when he would return to the court. Westbrook, 24, has never missed a regular season NBA game in his career, but he clearly will now.