The operation took place earlier this week and was designed to correct a complex fracture dislocation which had failed to heal satisfactorily despite previous surgery in the UK.
Despite undergoing a prolonged recovery and rehabilitation programme, the 20-year old has been unable to resume bowling since he sustained the initial injury while playing for Durham against Lancashire at Emirates Durham in the LV= County Championship.
The initial healing phase following the operation will be approximately three months and a further three months of graded recovery and rehabilitation will be required before he can begin playing again.
Ben is not expected to return to cricket until the beginning of the 2012 domestic season. His rehabilitation will be undertaken in the UK with specialist hand therapists in conjunction with Durham CCC and the guidance of the ECB medical team.
Ben Stokes said: “It’s always frustrating to be on the sidelines for any length of time and I am naturally disappointed to miss out on the opportunity to be considered for selection for England this winter. My priority now will be to work hard on my rehabilitation over the next six months and make sure I am fully fit and available to start the season with Durham next April.”