LEXINGTON, KY. ? The co-pilot who survived the crash of Comair Flight 5191 underwent surgery on his fractured spine Wednesday and it may be weeks – if not months – before he can return home, a hospital official said.

James Polehinke was in serious condition Wednesday night. The co-pilot was the lone survivor of the Aug. 27 crash that killed 49 people.

Andrew Bernard, a trauma surgeon at University of Kentucky Hospital who has treated Polehinke, said the pilot could enter a physical therapy program at another medical facility as early as next week. Polehinke faces several months of rehabilitation.

Polehinke’s family said this week that his left leg has been amputated. Other surgeries have repaired his broken right leg and foot.

Meanwhile, a crash victim’s family sued the airline Tuesday, claiming negligence. The lawsuit filed by the mother of Cecile Moscoe is among a half-dozen filed in federal court against Comair and its parent company, Delta Air Lines.