Abstract
1. Published comparisons of the results of conservative and operative treatment of trochanteric fractures have been fallacious because the groups have not been strictly comparable and because all deaths during convalescence have not been included.
2. In a series of cases studied at Oxford, comparable groups have been secured by allotting alternate cases to each group. All deaths within three months of injury have been included, whether occurring in hospital or elsewhere.
3. There was no great difference in mortality or in functional results between the two groups. One type of trochanteric fracture gives poor results whatever the method of treatment.
4. The series is too small for statistical conclusions, but the results suggest that the only advantages of operative treatment are greater economy of hospital beds, and increased comfort and mobility for the patient. The latter factor is important in frail patients, who are believed to be less prone to develop non-fatal complications if treated by operation than if treated conservatively.
