Gen Pinochet's lawyers have said they will appeal to the supreme court within the five days allowed.

Gen Pinochet's attendance at hospital will increase speculation about his health.

Gen Pinochet will now be required to submit to medical examinations to determine whether he is fit to stand trial.

Gen Pinochet has frequently visited the hospital in recent months for a variety of health problems.

Gen Pinochet did not appear in court for the latest hearing.

Many of Gen Pinochet's opponents believe that a trial may never take place.

He said Gen Pinochet did not faint or suffer a heart attack.

But Gen Pinochet is likely to appeal against any decision ordering him to stand trial.

Some 3,000 people were killed or disappeared during Gen Pinochet's 17-year rule, which ended in 1990.

Gen Pinochet, who ruled until 1990, has denied responsibility.