[Stroke--a study of clinical management and prognosis]

Knowledge on how to treat stroke effectively is increasing, but is not always implemented into clinical practice. The aim of this study was to establish the treatment offered, clinical status at discharge and long-term results for stroke patients admitted to a Norwegian local hospital.

421 patients were treated for stroke at Baerum hospital during the years 1994-1995. Patient history, medication, radiological findings and clinical findings at admission and discharge were recorded in a local register. Data on survival and re-hospitalisation for recurrent stroke were recorded for a period 7 to 9 years after discharge, i.e. until January 2003.

Hospital mortality was 17%. 49% were discharged directly to their homes. No antihypertensive treatment was given to 106 (51.6%) of the 206 patients who had hypertension upon discharge. 273 (90%) of the 303 patients discharged after cerebral infarction, were receiving antithrombotic treatment with warfarin or acetylic salicylic acid upon discharge. The most important prognostic factor for survival and functional ability was the patient's age at the time of stroke and next, the stroke's anatomical localization and extent.

Registers for follow-up of stroke patients provide valuable information on clinical practice and can form a basis for improved treatment of stroke in the future.