Cork hospitals ahead of the curve in stroke care

Two Cork hospitals are ahead of the international curve in administrating clot-busting treatment to patients within the vital three hours post-stroke.

Stroke physician Dr Kieran O’Connor said those fortunate enough to receive thrombolytic therapy in the immediate aftermath of a stroke had a one-in-seven chance of complete recovery.

Dr O’Connor, who heads up the acute stroke unit at the Mercy University Hospital, said internationally, 5% of patients were getting the vital treatment within the recommended time.