Highlanders lock Brad Thorn will likely miss the remainder of the Super 15 season.

Thorn ruptured his right distal bicep in the side's win over the Blue Bulls on Friday night.

He is scheduled to undergo surgery in the next few days, but due to the nature of the injury and expected recovery period, it is unlikely he will return this season.

At age 39 it is unclear if Thorn will be back for the side next year as his contract expires at the end of this season.