In recent studies outpatient treatment of proximal deep venous thrombosis with low-weight-molecular heparin is shown as safe and effective as the treatment within the hospital. The incidence of recurrent thromboembolism, major bleeding and mortality is not higher in an ambulatory setting than in the hospital. The comfort of the patient is higher, the costs can be reduced. The present review discusses the different conditions for ambulatory treatment of deep venous thrombosis. The question will be addressed which patients will probably be considered for outpatient treatment of deep vein thrombosis.