After finishing second in the Coleman Medal race, four goals behind Tiger Jack Riewoldt, Ben Brown is aiming to go one better in 2019.

But before the North spearhead can embark on another standout season, he’ll require minor hip surgery according to GM football Cameron Joyce.

“Ben landed and twisted awkwardly back in Round 17 when we played Sydney at Etihad,” Joyce revealed to North Media.

“As a result, he injured his hip slightly but it was determined he would be able to get through the season with it, thanks to some careful management and ongoing treatment by our medical staff.”

Brown’s 61 goals was a career high and helped earn him selection in the All-Australian 40-man squad.

Joyce says fixing the hip issue now will allow him time to recover and have a full pre-season.

“It’s a minor hip arthroscopy, so nothing too serious,” Joyce said.

“Thankfully, this won’t impact his 2019 campaign.”

Meanwhile, Joyce says Trent Dumont will require surgery to repair his left thumb.

“It’s an injury Trent has been dealing with from early in the year and more credit has to go to our medical team for the way they’ve managed it,” Joyce said.

“Trent will need a thumb ligament reconstruction but his running program won’t be impacted which is a positive.”

The 23-year-old midfielder enjoyed a breakout season averaging a career-high 21 disposals and 4 tackles.