Director Fellini in Coma; Prognosis Grim

ROME — Doctors gave grim assessments Tuesday about the prospects for recovery of film director Federico Fellini, and one physician said Fellini would suffer some brain damage even if he emerged from his coma. Fellini, 73, went into a coma Sunday after suffering a heart attack and respiratory problems. He had been undergoing therapy for a stroke suffered in August.

“The point of no return is approaching. The situation does not allow for excessive hopes,” Dr. Gianfranco Turchetti told reporters outside Rome’s Polyclinic Hospital.