[Thromboembolism prevention in surgical medicine: heparin or heparin-dihydroergotamine?].

This review summarizes clinical studies on prevention of venous thromboembolism by heparin or heparin and dihydroergotamine. Advantages and disadvantages of both drugs are described. The value of low-dose-heparin can no longer be seriously disputed. Up to now, however, there is no clear evidence that heparin-dihydroergotamine improves the efficacy and reduces the frequency of complications. The later drug is a new approach still under investigation.