Introduction

Transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) are important because they suggest that the patient may be at risk of stroke. If appropriate treatment is instituted then stroke may be averted.

In New Zealand there are about 1600 new or repeat strokes per million population per year. Outcome in these patients may be summarised as follows;

• 800 die
• 80 remain permanently hospitalised
• 640 eventually return home to be supported by their spouse and family in the community