Graded pressure stockings significantly reduced the incidence of venographically determined deep venous thrombosis (DVT) after total hip arthroplasty. Seventy-six patients were studied; the incidence of DVT was 54 per cent in 41 control patients and 20 per cent in 35 patients who wore stockings. Administration of blood during the operation and in the first 24 h after operation, if given in excess of blood loss, was associated with a significantly increased risk of developing DVT. The application of graded pressure stockings and the avoidance of unnecessary perioperative blood transfusion are worth while in the management of total hip arthroplasty.