[Treatment options in deep vein thrombosis].

In the event of a deep vein thrombosis, the major concern is to prevent the subsequent development of an embolism or a recurrence. The therapeutic time gap to the development of the full effect of the vitamin K antagonists is bridged in the initial acute treatment phase with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or fondaparinux. In patients in whom vitamin K antagonists are contraindicated, or in pregnancy, secondary prophylaxis is alternatively continued with dose-adjusted LMWH. Compression therapy serves merely to prevent a post-thrombotic syndrome.