• Deep vein thrombosis is the most common preventable cause of death in surgical patients. • Early recognition of deep vein thrombosis and prompt treatment is critical in preventing progression of the disease and possible pulmonary embolism. • Prevention of deep vein thrombosis in surgical patients is also critical, and the indications and contraindications should be well understood. • The most common treatment for deep vein thrombosis is anticoagulation; however the indications for thrombectomy should be understood and recognized from a general surgery perspective.