Massa in 'life-threatening' state

( AP)

A doctor says Ferrari driver Felipe Massa remains in "life-threatening" but stable condition despite "reassuring" results of his surgery on multiple skull fractures.

AEK hospital medical director Peter Bazso told reporters today that Massa would remain in an induced coma for the next 48 hours, but will be woken up periodically during that time.

Bazso said the 28-year-old Brazilian did not sustain any neurological damage as a result of the high-speed crash during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix on Saturday.

Massa suffered multiple skull fractures when a loose car part ricocheted off the track and hit his helmet, concussing him. He drove headlong into a tire barrier.