Michael Schumacher critically ill after ski fall

By, 2015-01-11

> Doctors said they found a window of opportunity last night to operate, and after the family consented to the procedure it appears Schumacher has 'gained a bit of time'. He has been put into a medically-induced coma for now.

"We can't say he is out of danger but... we have gained a bit of time,'' said Dr Jean-Francois Payen. "The coming hours are crucial, but all the family is very much aware that his state is still sensitive and anything can happen."

Seven-time Formula One world champion, Michael Schumacher, is fighting for his life in a French hospital following a skiing accident in the Three Valleys region of the French Alps.

Schumacher, who turns 45 on Friday, was skiing on an unmarked, off-piste slope when he fell and hit his head. Doctors at the Grenoble hospital where he is currently being treated have said that he would not have survived the impact had he not been wearing a helmet.

Jean-Francois Payen, head anaesthetist at the Grenoble hospital said in a news conference: “We can say that his condition is extremely serious.” The team treating Schumacher went on to say: “For the moment we cannot tell you what the outcome will be.”

Schumacher was airlifted from the mountain to Grenoble, arriving just after midday on Sunday with internal bleeding and lesions to the right side of his head. Doctors performed an operation to remove a clot on his brain and are currently keeping Schumacher in an artificial coma as they work to reduce pressure on his brain. The team said it’s also important that they minimize any external stimuli and keep a good supply of oxygen flowing to the brain.

Former FIA medical delegate, Gary Hartstein has tweeted: “So what's next? Simply put, providing the brain with the most normal conditions possible, while avoiding usual ICU threats.”

“This means normal oxygenation and CO2 levels, normal blood flow. Normal blood sugar. Strictly avoiding fever. And any irritative seizures.”