East Rutherford, NJ (My Sportsbook) - New York Giants safety Kenny Phillips underwent microfracture surgery on the trochlea of his left knee Tuesday, days after being placed on injured reserve.

Phillips' leg was placed in a splint to keep it straight, and he will not be able to run for the next four or five months. The surgery, which took less than two hours and was performed by renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrews, was required after he was diagnosed with patellofemoral arthritis in the knee. Phillips said the rehab period will be long but not painful.

Phillips, New York's first-round pick (31st overall) in the 2008 draft, was coming off a stellar performance against the Dallas Cowboys two weeks ago, when he recorded seven tackles and intercepted two passes.

The knee problem initially surfaced during training camp, but Phillips was able to play through the injury. An MRI last week revealed that Phillips' condition had worsened over time.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound safety played in all 16 games (three starts) for the Giants last year, compiling 66 tackles, seven passes defensed and one interception.