Ronny Turiaf could be forced to end his career after it was revealed he will undergo an open-heart operation this month.

The LA Lakers center has been diagnosed with an enlarged aortic root which could trigger sudden death if he does not have surgery.

The diagnosis was made by American doctors after the 22-year-old Frenchman signed a two-year contract with the Lakers two weeks ago.

Turiaf is expected to be out of action for between six months to a year after the operation.

"After the draft (on June 28) I joined the Lakers to take part in the summer league," Turiaf told L'Equipe.

"I played a few matches and signed almost straight after.

"To make my contract valid I had to pass a medical and that's when the Lakers' doctor said to me that I had very serious problems with my heart and that I may not be able to play basketball ever again.

"I could not believe it. He advised me to go and see one of his colleagues who is an expert in that matter. He said to me that I had a slight chance to get back because I am young and in a good physical condition.

"Then I saw a few more doctors. Their diagnosis is clear, my aortic root is too big and the partition that surrounds my heart can crack anytime. The risk of sudden death is real, that's why I need to be operated on as fast as possible.

"For now I am taking medicines to make the partition hold but the operation should be taking place within the next three weeks."

Turiaf admits he is experiencing very difficult times but he is determined to fight to be back and play with the Lakers next campaign.

"It was hard at the start, I was very scared but now I feel better," he added.

"I trust myself, in my abilities and in God who has always been kind to me.

"I was lucky to play in the United States for four years, in a university which allowed me to get a diploma in sporting management, that was my first dream.

"The second was to play in the NBA. Nothing's over for me. I am a fighter and I will do all I can to be back.

"I will be operated on and in a year's time I will be playing basketball again. I will be a Laker."

Turiaf also paid tribute to the Lakers who have decided to support him all the way through.

"They were class, they assured me they would support me and will take charge of the financial side of the operation, the physiotherapy, accommodation, food, electricity, everything," he added.

"If I can't play anymore they said they would offer me a job at the club.

"I think I made a good impression during the matches I played with them.

They like me a lot."