At some point after the bone heals, Mr. Ware and his doctors may consider whether to remove the rod to prevent possible pain from the impact of playing.

WSJ: What Surgery Can Do for an Athlete's Bad Break

Kaplan -- who also is not involved in Ware's care -- said it's also possible Ware had a benign bone tumor that weakened the tibia before his fall.

CNN: Kevin Ware could be playing again in less than a year

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Saul Kaplan of Springfield, Virginia, says Ware may have twisted his leg as he landed, causing the bone to snap.

CNN: Kevin Ware could be playing again in less than a year