Surgeon: Kirk reaches milestone in stroke recovery

CHICAGO (AP) — Doctors say Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk has reached an important milestone in his recovery from a major stroke.

The 52-year-old Republican was in good health when he had a stroke last month.

Doctors believe a clot developed from a tear in an artery in his neck and lodged in his brain. Surgeons removed part of his skull to relieve pressure and allow the brain to swell.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital neurosurgeon Richard Fessler said in a statement Tuesday that the swelling in Kirk's brain has subsided and the portion of his skull has been reattached.

Fessler says it's a step toward rehabilitation and that Kirk remains in good condition.

Fessler has said the stroke will affect movement on the left side of Kirk's body.