Ever heard of ancrod? It’s a tissue plasminogen activator which improves stroke outcomes slightly if given within a short time. However, this study shows no benefit in patients with acute ischaemic stroke who receive it at between 3 and 6 hours after the event. I am reminded of a rousing hymn which the Salvation Army used to sing outside sailors’ taverns, “Will your anchor hold in the storm of life?
Lancet 25 Nov 2006
