The management of the acute ischemic stroke patient spans the time course from the emergency evaluation and treatment period through to the eventual discharge planning phase of stroke care. In this article we evaluate the literature and describe what have become standard treatments in the care of the stroke patient. We will review the literature that supports the use of a dedicated stroke unit for routine stroke care which has demonstrated reduced rates of morbidity and mortality. Also reviewed is the use of glycemic control in the initial setting along with data supporting the use of prophylactic treatments options in order to aide in the prevention of life threatening medical complications. In addition, lifesaving treatments will be discussed in light of new literature demonstrating reduced mortality in large hemispheric stroke patients undergoing surgical decompressive surgery. Both medical and surgical treatment options are discussed and compared.