"It's a blow because he's done really well for us since he's come back," boss Paul Lambert told BBC Radio Norfolk.
"He's got a problem with his knee at the minute and hopefully that will settle down and we'll get him back."
South African Surman, who joined from Wolves in the summer, made four appearances for the Canaries before being ruled out in September.
He returned to the first-team against Leeds United a fortnight ago and also started the East Anglian derby win against Ipswich on Sunday before being replaced after 64 minutes.
I don't think you can keep on basking in a result, you have to move on
Norwich City boss Paul Lambert
Lambert boosted his midfield options before the loan deadline by bringing in Arsenal youngster Henri Lansbury and can also turn to Wes Hoolahan who was on the bench against Ipswich.
The City boss is keen for his side to remain grounded after the 4-1 demolition of Ipswich.
"I don't think you can keep on basking in a result, you have to move on, whether we won the game or drew it or lost it," he said.
"There's no rocket science, you have to go to your next game, but I wasn't naive enough not to know how much it means to the Norwich fans."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport