Prof. MUDr. Zuzana Gdovinová, CSc., FESO, FEAN has dedicated her professional career to the research and treatment of cerebrovascular strokes. "During my medical studies, I was fascinated by the brain - its complexity and its importance for the functioning of the entire body," she recalls. Over time, she specialized in neurology and focused her attention on strokes.
She played a key role in introducing modern acute treatment methods that significantly improved the prognosis for stroke patients, such as thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. "In stroke treatment, every minute counts - the sooner the patient receives the right therapy, the greater the chance of recovery," she emphasizes.
Alongside her clinical practice, she is deeply involved in research. She was instrumental in establishing the national stroke registry, which collects data on hundreds of patients and enables monitoring of care quality. This allows physicians to compare outcomes internationally and implement evidence-based practices. "Only when we have data can we practice evidence-based medicine, not medicine based on impressions," she says.
Collaboration with colleagues is essential in all these efforts "One person alone cannot achieve anything," she notes.
Gdovinová also focuses on post-stroke care. Strokes often leave not only physical but also cognitive consequences. "A patient may recover physically but still struggle with memory, attention, or speech. And that determines whether they can return to work and a full life," she explains.
Her work extends into the international sphere. She participates in projects that compare the effectiveness of different treatment strategies and seek ways to shorten the time from symptom onset to treatment. Thanks to these efforts, Slovakia has become a respected country in acute stroke care.
Beyond the technical aspects, she emphasizes the human side of neurology. "Sometimes, what matters most to a patient's family is that you talk to them and explain what's happening. Empathy is just as important in our work as technical skills," she reminds us.
Her vision is to ensure that modern treatment reaches all patients, regardless of which hospital they end up in. "My goal is for patients to have the same chance of receiving quality care in Košice, Bratislava, or a smaller hospital," she adds.
Despite her demanding work, she finds time to relax. She enjoys going to the theatre, attending concerts, spending time with friends, and recharging in nature. "The greatest reward for me is seeing patients return to everyday life, that's what gives my work meaning," concludes Zuzana Gdovinová.
