Ducati’s Nicky Hayden underwent surgery in California last week.

Following incidents in Indianapolis and Aragón last year, both of which damaged his right hand, Nicky Hayden has undergone a small operation as his recovery continues.

The American was already suffering from a double fracture when he arrived at MotorLand Aragón in 2012, having been knocked unconscious in a qualifying accident at Indianapolis.

On the Sunday in Spain, he sustained a further breakage when the Ducati Team rider lost control and was launched over the top of a safety barrier.

“Minor tune up last night to clean up some old scar tissue,” Hayden tweeted from on Thursday, having been operated on by personal doctor Arthur Ting in Fremont, California. “All went smooth, just a small setback.”

In the latest Sepang pre-season test session last month, the 2006 world champion finished ninth overall and fractionally behind new teammate Andrea Dovizioso.