The career of AFL star Adam Ramanauskas could be over after the Essendon wingman underwent surgery to have another tumour removed.

Ramanauskas had a second tumour from his neck and shoulder area removed, three months after surgeons removed the initial growth.

The recurrence was diagnosed two weeks ago and Thursday's surgery has ended the 22-year-old's 2003 season.

There is some chance it could also threaten his career, as there is a risk of nerve damage from the surgery.

Essendon club doctor Bruce Reid said Ramanauskas had a rare growth known as fibromatosis, which affects the connective tissue in the upper body.

"This tumour is benign but is locally aggressive," Dr Reid said.

"The surgery is delicate and - as was the case with his first operation - there is a risk of nerve damage.

"We can't be absolutely certain what affect this will have on his long-term playing future but the early detection has given us the best chance of ensuring Adam makes a full recovery."

Privately, the Bombers were saying Ramanauskas could be back for round one next season, provided the surgery went well.

Ramanauskas missed eight games after his first bout of surgery and would have been a key player in the Bombers' run home ahead of the finals, starting with Sunday's game against the Western Bulldogs at Telstra Dome.

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