Deep venous thrombosis continues to be a frequent complication of surg
ery and trauma. The topic is controversial with regard to diagnosis, i
ndication for prophylaxis, and suitable methods for prophylaxis and th
erapy. We review some of the highlights of the extensive literature in
this field during the last few gears. Particular emphasis is given to
new trends in diagnostic methods, newly discovered genetic factors fo
r thrombophilia, and the use of heparins for prophylaxis and therapy o
f thromboembolic disease.