Dec. 18 (Bloomberg) -- Dick Vitale, ESPN's lead college basketball analyst, had surgery today to treat ulcers in his throat and won't return to work until at least February.

Vitale, who has been at the Walt Disney Co. network for 29 years and has never missed a game, said in a letter posted on ESPN's Web site that he has had a ``very difficult time with discomfort'' in his throat for the past six weeks.

After visiting several throat specialists, doctors discovered ulcers on Vitale's left vocal chord and recommended surgery, the broadcaster said.

During Vitale's absence, former Duke University forward Jay Bilas will handle his analyst responsibilities for ESPN's Saturday night ``Game of the Week'' telecasts. The remainder of Vitale's schedule will be shared by conference analysts, ESPN spokesman Josh Krulewitz said in a telephone interview.

Known for his energetic on-air style and catch phrases such as ``prime-time player'' for standout performers and ``diaper dandy'' for young stars, the 68-year-old Vitale joined ESPN after coaching the National Basketball Association's Detroit Pistons during the 1978-79 season. He also was head coach and athletic director at the University of Detroit and an assistant at Rutgers University.

He has won several awards since joining ESPN, including the Basketball Hall of Fame's Curt Gowdy Media Award.

To contact the reporter on this story: Michael Buteau in Atlanta at mbuteau@bloomberg.net

Last Updated: December 18, 2007 14:53 EST