Reading hospital ranked top for cardiac treatment

Statistics released by the National Institute for Cardiovascular Outcomes Research, showed that 90 per cent of patients at the Royal Berkshire Hospital were given primary angioplasty treatment within 120 minutes of the patient calling for help.
The 120 minute target is regarded as the toughest one to achieve.
Primary angioplasty is the procedure carried out on heart attack patients which involves inflating a balloon in a patient's heart to reopen a blocked artery.
A metal tube is then inserted into the artery to keep it clear.
In the four years that national statistics have been compiled, the Royal Berkshire Hospital's cardiac team has enjoyed a unique record of success.
In 2010 the team had the best record of meeting the target of 150 minutes and in 2011 it was the second fastest centre operating a 24/7 service in meeting the tougher 120 minute target.