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Various experimental models have been developed in order to more clearly understand deep vein thrombosis, the mechanisms involved and its treatment. These models are based on venous stasis, either alone or combined with the injection of thrombogenic substances or endothelial lesions. Other models only use endothelial lesions. Thrombogenic substances are mostly composed of activated factor X or thrombin, which raises the problem of purity of the substances and determination of the antithrombotic activities of the substance tested, especially heparin and hirudin and their derivatives, and consequently their efficacy. Endothelial lesions can be induced by chemical, physical or electrical agents or by repeated application of clamps, or cellular crushing. These models result in the formation of various forms of venous thrombus. The development and improvement of experimental models is very important in every case. Experimental models of thrombosis constitute the best tool for the study of thrombosis, in which many points remain to be elucidated. They also allow the study and development of various antithrombotic substances the improvement of their efficacy. These models must be validated, standardized, reproductible and in agreement with local legislation in each country.