Israel's Sharon stable after surgery - hospital

JERUSALEM, Apr 5 (Reuters) Israel's Ariel Sharon, in a coma since a Janaury 4 stroke, underwent a successful operation to repair surgical damage to his skull today, the hospital where he is being treated said.

Jerusalem's Hadassah hospital said in a statement that the incapacited Prime Minister was recovering in intensive care. The operation was originally scheduled for yesterday but postponed due to a mild respiratory infection.

Sharon, 78, was replaced by interim Prime Minister Ehud Olmert whose Kadima party emerged as the largest party in last week's Israeli general election. Olmert is expected to formally succeed Sharon as prime minister in the coming weeks.

Doctors have speculated that Sharon will be moved to a nursing home intended for long-term comatose patients requiring constant medical care.

REUTERS SBJ BS2142