Based on systematic reviews carried out by the Stroke Unit Trialists’ Collaboration, this concise text discusses the place of in-patient stroke unit care in the management of stroke patients. It provides a unique evidence based analysis of the effectiveness of the stroke unit - in terms of reduction of mortality and disability, and resource implications. There are also chapters on implementation and situations where more research is required.Contents include: the history of the stroke unit; How should we evaluate our interventions? Assembling evidence about stroke units; effectiveness of organised (stroke unit) care; economics of stroke unit care; implications for planning stroke services; and, implications for further research. With user friendly case histories, key points summaries, and a glossary of terms, this will be an essential evidence based guide to the current information on organising stroke care. It will appeal to all clinicians in stroke care, public health doctors, hospital managers, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and everyone involved with the rehabilitation of stroke patients.