[Research possibilities of stroke databanks]

Stroke data banks (SDBS) have a growing importance in clinical research. They can be applied to a multitude of clinical issues. Hospital-based uni- or multicentered SDBS usually focus on syndromatology, pathogenesis and etiology. In contrast, classical epidemiological studies center upon complete case ascertainment within a geographically defined area (stroke registry). SDBS differ from conventional case series by their systematic collection of data within a specified time frame. Their main importance is the possibility to generate hypotheses quickly and cost-effectively. These hypotheses can serve as a basis for further prospective clinical studies. SDBS also show an important interaction with the design and conduct of clinical trials.