Operative treatment of subtrochanteric femur fractures is demanding. The implants available follow different biomechanical and surgical principles. Extramedullary implants like the condylar blade plate and the dynamic condylar screw require subtle surgical and indirect reduction techniques. Intramedullary implants like intramedullary hip screws and interlocking nails are biomechanically advantageous. In contrast to the extramedullary implants these fixations can stand postoperative weight-bearing. The different operative techniques for the fixation of subtrochanteric fractures are presented and evaluated. Current trends in treatment rationales are outlined.