Stroke prevention treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation: old and new.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cause of cardioembolic ischemic stroke and has a rising prevalence worldwide. Stroke prevention in this condition is poised to take a substantial leap forward with the evolution of new anticoagulant medications, with superior properties compared to vitamin K antagonists. New, safer and more effective chronic therapy is on the horizon. However, many issues surrounding the management of stroke prevention after an acute stroke and during the course of chronic anticoagulant therapy remain to be resolved.