The 28-year-old went under the knife on Thursday (August 25) and the procedure was announced as a success.

"The operation went well," said Latvian Bobsleigh's team doctor John Kaupe.

"Everything succeeded as planned and without complications. 

"After the operation, he must remain in hospital for another two days, then Oskars will be discharged home with further instructions on the treatment process. 

"The rehabilitation period will be removed in close cooperation with the treating surgeon and the Latvian Olympic Team for physicians."

It is hoped that Melbārdis will be able to return to the track "soon" after an unspecified recovery period.

"We invite journalists to be understanding and to respect the patient's right of discretion," a statement on the Latvian Bobsleigh Federation website said.

Melbārdis piloted Latvia's four-man team, which also included Daumants Dreiškens, Arvis Vilkaste and Jānis Strenga, to gold at last year's International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Championships in Igls in Austria.

This was the first ever bobsleigh world title for his country.

He also boasts an Olympic silver medal in his collection, from the Sochi 2014 four-man competition, as well as three other World Championship medals.

Melbārdis is also a four-time IBSF World Cup champion.