Sad news abut the Southern bassist.

Blabbermouth have revealed in this post that former Pantera and current Down bassist Rex Brown will have his gallbladder and polyps on his pancreas removed in a surgical procedure that is scheduled to take place later this week.

Brown, who is suffering from acute pancreatitis (a sudden inflammation of the pancreas which can have severe complications and high mortality despite treatment), will likely be sidelined for approximately five weeks following the operation. A full and healthy recovery is expected.

During Down’s most recent European tour, Rex began experiencing pain and discomfort in his abdomen — an ailment that has been troubling him for the past five years that had never been properly diagnosed. This time around, Rex became more concerned, and upon his return to the U.S. immediately sought out some of the best doctors for a diagnosis. It wasn’t long before Rex was told that he was suffering from acute pancreatitis — and yesterday he was made aware of some issues with his gallbladder.

As a result of all this unplanned activity, Brown has suspended his planned return to action with Down and will sit out the remainder of the band’s current North American tour.

Commented Brown: “I miss being with my brothers on tour but we’re all cool with the fact that I need to take care of myself at this time. I miss them, the music, and, of course, you, the fans. But most importantly, I look forward to getting back into the studio with Down when I’m 100% healthy.”

Further updates on Brown’s medical condition will become available as they are known.