ST KILDA ruckman Tom Hickey has travelled to London in search of a solution to the knee tendinitis that he was forced to play through in 2014.

The former Gold Coast big man will visit leading surgeon Hakan Alfredson, one of the world's foremost patella tendon specialists, but a decision is yet to be made as to whether he will undergo surgery.  

"We did seek some opinions here, which were really helpful, but we've chosen to go over there for surgery with one of the people we deem is the world's leading expert," club physio Andrew Wallis told Saints.com.au.

"He will see a specialist on Monday and, if it is appropriate, he will have surgery."

Prof. Alfredson has treated other AFL players such as Greater Western Sydney forward Jonathon Patton and Geelong's Steven Motlop.

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Hickey played six games in 2014, with his season ending after round 17. He missed seven matches mid-season because of a foot injury.

Last month head of football Chris Pelchen said the 23-year-old had been "experiencing knee tendonitis for some time".

The Saints also confirmed on Tuesday that young star Jack Billings had suffered a right hamstring strain against the Western Bulldogs and would not play again this season.

Defender Josh Bruce has also been ruled out for the rest of the year with shin soreness.

In better news, recently re-signed defender Jarryn Geary is available for selection to face the Sydney Swans on Saturday after recovering from a serious elbow injury.

Geary, who could return through the VFL, last played in round seven.