Statistical Analysis Computerized statistical analysis was undertaken with the following: (1) descriptive basic statistics and standard deviation of key variables stratified by age and sex and (2) differences in functional outcome and its evolution before and after the episode determined the possible effects on mortality and different residual deficits categorized with the statistical Cox regression model. Mortality should be interpreted as overall mortality and cause-specific, no stroke. Patients who died during hospitalization or within the 1st month are considered 'immediate death'. During follow-up the deceased are described as 'subsequent mortality'.