Subtrochanteric femur fractures: current review of management

Subtrochanteric (ST) femur fractures are proximal femur fractures, which are often difficult to manage effectively because of their deforming anatomical forces. Operative management of ST fractures is the mainstay of treatment, with the two primary surgical implant options being intramedullary (IM) nails and extramedullary plates. Of these, IM nails have a biologic and biomechanical superiority, and have become the gold standard for ST femur fractures. The orthopaedic surgeon should become familiar and facile with several reduction techniques to create anatomical alignment in all unique ST fracture patterns. This article presents a comprehensive and current review of the epidemiology, anatomy, biomechanics, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of subtrochanteric femur fractures.