Subcapital fractures after open reduction and internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures of the hip. Report of three cases.

Three cases of subcapital fractures were discovered after open reduction and internal fixation of intertrochanteric fractures of the hip. These fractures: (1) illustrate devices and methods that contribute to this complication; (2) occur typically in elderly patients with an osteoporotic type of bone; and (3) indicate measures necessary to avoid this complication.