Naples – There's a corner of international healthcare excellence in Naples, and it's located within the Ospedale del Mare. Its Stroke Unit, the department specializing in stroke care, has been awarded the prestigious "Diamond" recognition by the European Stroke Organization (ESO) for the third quarter of 2025. This is the highest level of the ESO-Angels Award, a seal of quality awarded to time hunters and neurorapidity specialists.
The numbers of the race against time
To understand the significance of this milestone, a single figure is enough: in Italy, between 150 and 200 new cases of stroke are recorded each year. This disease is the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of disability in the country. In this scenario, the crucial variable is time. Every minute that passes without treatment means the loss of millions of neurons.
The secret of success: synergy and speed
The "Diamond" award was presented to the Neuroradiology team, led by Vincenzo D'Agostino, and the Neurology team, led by Mauro Idone. Their merit? Having demonstrated stroke management at the highest levels in Europe, with particular excellence in timely treatment (such as thrombolysis) and optimization of care pathways. A perfect mechanism that, by reducing treatment times, saves lives and limits disability. This work is made possible by the 24-hour operation of the two complex operating units, which welcome patients from all over Naples and the surrounding province.
The voices of the protagonists: "A source of pride for the city"
"This award is a source of pride and satisfaction for all of us," commented Medical Director Maria Corvino. "It confirms the strategic role of Ospedale del Mare in the regional stroke network and makes us a model for emergency stroke management in Campania."
General Manager Gaetano Gubitosa echoed this sentiment, concluding with a thank you and a look to the future: "I thank all the staff for their commitment and professionalism. Timely and quality care are essential. We are honored to offer our patients high-quality treatment and to see our excellence recognized internationally."
I'm happy for the Ospedale del Mare and the stroke unit: important news, but the writing is too technical, and some details remain unclear. They received the Diamond, but it's unclear how the process works, the intervention times, and the responsibilities aren't fully explained. Let's hope they continue like this.