Alternatives in the management of subtrochanteric fractures.

Conventional appliances used for treating fractures of the hip frequently are unsuccessful in the management of subtrochanteric fractures of the femur. Such appliances must only be employed when fracture stability can be obtained by meticulous open reduction. The appliance used must be strong, of sufficient length, and well fixed to the underlying bone. In fracture types where rigid internal fixation cannot be accomplished because of comminution or poor bone stock, intramedullary fixation utilizing the Ender principle is advocated.