Melbourne surgeon still fighting for life after one-punch attack

A Melbourne surgeon brutally attacked outside the hospital where he worked is expected to remain in a critical condition for the next 48 hours.

Heart surgeon Patrick Pritzwald-Stegmann is fighting for his life at The Alfred Hospital after he was allegedly punched near the entrance to Box Hill Hospital on Tuesday night.

A hospital spokeswoman said the surgeon was likely to remain in a critical condition for the next 48 hours.

The Australian Medical Association has condemned the attack, saying violence has become a common occurrence in hospitals.

Joseph Esmaili, 22, did not apply for bail when he faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Thursday accused of the one-punch attack.

Mr Esmaili's lawyer told the court her client was suffering from a number of "psychiatric illnesses" for which he had been prescribed medication, as well as drug withdrawal symptoms.

He was remanded in custody to face a committal hearing on August 24.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

With AAP.