Peyton's knee has been a very common theme from training camp into the season. The reasons behind the initial surgery were unknown and a second surgery (which the Colts refused to admit happened until well after the fact) was needed to clear out an infection.
Now the Indy Star and ESPN are reporting that both the intital and follow up surgery was to clear out a staph infection of the bursa sacs in Peyton's knee.
A staph infection attacked his bursa, forcing the first procedure that kept him out of the start of training camp.
And the same infection forced doctors to go in a second time later in camp, likely pushing back Manning's recovery timetable by a couple of weeks.
The surgery was only needed because of an infection. There were no issues in the knee before then that required surgery. He couldn't have had the surgery earlier so as to not miss camp. The Colts can't be blamed for Manning not being ready in time. They could be blamed for the secrecy the situation was handled with, but that's the way the league has become regarding injuries.
UPDATE The Colts have released a statement confirming that the reason for the first surgery was infection, but denying that the second surgery was to treat the infection and that the infection was MRSA (the strain of antibiotic resistant staph) that multiple Browns players and reportedly Manning had.
FACTS CONCERNING QB-PEYTON MANNING'S KNEE SURGERY (released in consultation with club physicians to provide accuracy with respect to medical facts)
"Peyton Manning developed swelling in his left pre-patella bursa in late February. The swollen bursa was treated conservatively beginning in February with drainage and anti-inflammatory medication. The first signs of infection occurred while he was in New Orleans in July. It should be noted that infection developed prior to any surgery. Upon manifestation of the signs of infection, he immediately had surgery to remove the bursa sac. Concurrently, he was treated aggressively with antibiotics, and the infection was eliminated. The second procedure (tacking of the skin to eliminate the bursal space) was designed to ensure the complete and swift resolution of the bursal problem. The procedure was successful. The second procedure was in now way, shape or form, related to the infection. The second procedure did not delay his rehabilitation or recovery materially. It also should be noted emphatically that, at no time, did he have MRSA. It is clear from consultation with our physicians, including infectious disease specialists, that staph is a societal medical problem. There is no empirical evidence that indicates to our physicians there is a problem related to resistant staph (MRSA) with respect to the Indianapolis Colts."