Melbourne youngster Ricky Petterd will undergo surgery on Thursday on his damaged lung, ending his AFL season.

The 18-year-old collapsed in the dressing rooms during Sunday's win over Carlton and needed emergency medical treatment.

Club doctors had to insert a needle in his chest to alleviate the life-threatening condition and it is understood Petterd suffered a setback on Tuesday in hospital.

"Ricky will undergo surgery tomorrow after meeting with specialists earlier tonight," the Demons said in a statement.

"Ricky will have endoscopic assessment of his lung to repair any lung surface damage and to expand the lung.

"It is expected Ricky will remain in hospital for between three to six days and should make a full recovery.

"It is unlikely that he will play football again in the 2007 season."

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