Drugs and Surgery in the Prevention of Ischemic Stroke

Abstract
Ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are among the principal causes of death and disability in older people, although the incidence of such strokes is lower than in the past.1,2 Control of blood pressure, decreased cigarette smoking, and possibly altered dietary habits are among the important but unconfirmed reasons proposed for this decline.35 This review addresses the antithrombotic and surgical measures to prevent ischemic stroke that have been rigorously evaluated in randomized clinical trials.Use of Anticoagulant Agents to Prevent Ischemic StrokeSince the introduction of anticoagulant agents 50 years ago, their use has varied widely, which is to be . . .