When every minute makes a difference in quality of life, highly specialized care is essential. As a certified stroke center in Zurich, we combine state-of-the-art medical technology with an interdisciplinary team of experts. From life-saving emergency care to targeted early rehabilitation, we guide you back to your everyday life with the utmost precision and compassionate care.
A stroke is a life-changing event—we’ll guide you through each phase in a structured way.
1. Acute Treatment: Our specialized team uses state-of-the-art procedures such as thrombolysis (dissolution of the clot with medication) or thrombectomy (mechanical removal using a catheter) to save brain tissue.
2. Stroke Unit: In our specialized monitoring unit, we monitor your vital signs around the clock. Here, we lay the groundwork for your stabilization and further diagnostic testing.
3. Early rehabilitation: The road to recovery begins while you’re still in your hospital bed. Our physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists will work with you on your mobility and communication skills starting on your first day.
The length of your stay depends on the severity of the stroke. While a mild transient ischemic attack (TIA) often requires only a few days of inpatient evaluation, patients typically remain in the acute care hospital for an average of two weeks. In severe cases, intensive treatment and monitoring may take several weeks.
A stroke requires close monitoring. Regular checkups, especially during the first few months, will help ensure your recovery is progressing well. The more stable your condition is, the longer the intervals between appointments will be. We tailor the follow-up intervals to your individual health, risk factors, and medication.
About two-thirds of stroke survivors cope with physical limitations after a stroke. Our goal is to help you achieve the greatest possible independence. Thanks to our close network of specialized rehabilitation clinics, we guarantee you seamless care—from the acute phase through rehabilitation to long-term prevention of future strokes.
A stroke is always a medical emergency. Don’t hesitate — call 144. At the USZ, our stroke team is on call around the clock to immediately initiate the appropriate treatment using state-of-the-art imaging (CT/MRI). Every minute counts.
First, blood flow to the brain is stabilized or restored (e.g., by using medication to dissolve the clot or through a catheter procedure). After that, patients are monitored in our specialized stroke unit.
The length of stay at the USZ varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the incident. On average, patients stay with us for about two weeks. In very mild cases (TIA), the hospital stay may last only a few days, while severe cases require longer, intensive monitoring.
Our goal is to help you begin rehabilitation as soon as possible. Our social services department and medical team will work with you to ensure a seamless transition to a specialized rehabilitation clinic. There, you’ll work hard to regain your independence in everyday life.
We know that a stroke is also a major burden for the patient’s loved ones. We offer counseling sessions, provide assistance with administrative matters related to long-term care financing, and keep you regularly informed about your loved ones’ health. Visits to the stroke unit are possible by appointment and are important for the recovery process.
So-called secondary prevention is a core component of our work. We analyze your risk factors (such as high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation) and create a personalized preventive care plan. With the right medication and lifestyle changes, the risk of a relapse can be significantly reduced.