Hospital director briefs reporters (Footage: Shai Rosenzeig, photo: AP)
Sharon may now spend several days anesthetized, before doctors attempt to rouse him on Sunday.
Hadassah Director Mor Yosef refused to predict Sharon's chances of recovery, but noted the prime minister suffered damage to his right lobe. The PM's reaction to various forms of stimulus cannot be examined because he is still under anesthesia and being ventilated, Mor Yosef said, but added Sharon's pupils were reacting well to tests.
Sharon's pupils reacting to stimulus
The fact Sharon's pupils are reacting properly is an encouraging sign, said Dr. Avi Cohen, who heads the Department of Neurosurgery at Be'er Sheva's Soroka hospital.
"The fact that Sharon's pupils are responding well indicates that his brainstem is intact," Cohen said.
"Stable vital signs can indicate that his brainstem is functioning," he said, adding that a hemorrhage on the right side of the brain may cause harm to the left side of Sharon's body.
Mor Yosef told reporters Thursday evening that Sharon is currently being treated in the Neurosurgery intensive care unit and has remained in a stable condition since the afternoon.
"All the medical parameters tested were found to be normal in light of his situation," he said. "The main treatment he is receiving at present is a deep anesthetization and ventilation."
Meanwhile, concerned foreign and local well-wishers continue to call the hospital and express their support for the prime minister in the hopes he fully recovers from the massive stroke, Mor Yosef said.
Efrat Weiss and Ronny Sofer contributed to the story