"This man appears to be cruel beyond words. Any criticism he gets, he brought on himself."
I think he truly believed she was completely un-aware. As such all those things you mentioned really don't matter nor are they cruel. (I"m not saying I agree, but that seems to be his mindset right or wrong.)
Indeed he has by his actions invited criticism but most of it hinges on the premise that he gave up on her. Was he correct in doing so? The courts felt that he was which doesn't make it "right" but does have the cover of sanction his actions.
Would she have had a living will directing a feeding tube removal would he still be criticized? Maybe. Her parents still may have wished to keep her alive too in direct opposition to her wishes and some would still criticize him.
I think he truly believed she was completely un-aware. I don't. Or else he wouldn't have banned any later video tapes of her. The physician/hospital reports on how her multiple bone fractures occurred, when and where, would not have been sealed by Judge Greer.
Medical science makes strides in treatment every day. Michael, being a registered nurse, knows that.