[40 years of neurological intensive care in Croatia]

On the 40 year anniversary of the foundation of the first Neurological intensive therapy unit (ICU) in Zagreb, Croatia and in the region, the author recalls circumstances which stipulated its realization. The process lasted several years, from the proposal in 1968, starting working in provisional conditions in 1971--acquiring experience, and normal functioning in the newly adapted rooms in 1974. Paying tribute to personalities who supported and participated in the advances of this process, the author informs that at the First Congress of Intensive Care (London, 1974) his report on Zagreb Neurological intensive therapy unit was the only one in neurology. The basic principles of therapy are nowadays the standard in the neurological departments, enabling better recovery from stroke, neurological ailment with high mortality. Positive development brought to the realization of the concept of comprehensive care for cerebrovascular patients, including prevention, early intensive therapy and neurological restoration measures after stroke.