LeBron James has benign growth removed from jaw

[June 03, 2009]  CLEVELAND (AP) -- Cavaliers star LeBron James had a benign growth removed from his right jaw during a five-hour procedure at the Cleveland Clinic on Tuesday.

James has had the condition for several months, but with permission from his treating doctors, he and his family decided to put off the operation until the Cavs completed their season. Cleveland was eliminated from the NBA playoffs on Saturday by Orlando in the Eastern Conference finals.

During the operation, Dr. Frank Papay removed tissue from the parotid gland, which produces saliva. Surgery for such conditions often takes time because of the numerous nerves and blood vessels in that area of the jaw.

The Cavaliers released a statement saying doctors were "pleased with the outcome of the procedure, and at this time, are confident that no further treatment will be needed as LeBron is expected to make a full and complete recovery."

James remains hospitalized and the team said he will soon be returning home.

The 24-year-old James was the league MVP this season after leading the Cavs to 66 regular-seasons wins and their second Central Division title. He averaged 38.5 points, 8.3 assists and 8.0 rebounds in Cleveland's series against the Magic, who won in six games.

James caused a minor controversy after Game 6 for not shaking hands with Orlando's players and skipping the postgame news conference.

[Associated Press; By TOM WITHERS]

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.