To evaluate the radiologic results between compressive hip screw and compressive hip screw with additional trochanteric stabilizing plate in patients with femoral unstable intertrochanteric fractures in patients with more 65 years old.

From 2006 to May 2009, 121 cases were included. Group I (compressive hip screw only) was 54 cases and group II (compressive hip screw with trochanteric stabilizing plate) was 67 cases. We checked the lag screw sliding, lateral translation of greater trochanter, changes of neck-shaft angle and complications through periodic follow up of radiographs.

Mean lag screw sliding was 7.6 mm in group I and 3.9 mm in group II (p=0.001). Mean lateral translation of greater trochanter was 3.86 mm in group I and 0.59 mm in group II (p=0.01). Mean changes of neck-shaft angle was nearly the same, 3.57° in group I and 3.66° in group II. Complications were 15 cases in group I and 10 cases in group II.

Compressive hip screw with additional trochanteric stabilizing plate was effective surgical option in patients with femoral unstable intertrochanteric fractures in patients with more than 65 years old. It decreased lag screw sliding, lateral translation of greater trochanter and complication rates.