Rotation can be assessed by comparison of contour of affected lesser trochanter to that of contralateral hip. A, The contour of the lesser trochanter from the contralateral uninjured side with the patella oriented anteriorly. B, The contour of the lesser trochanter from the injured side should match the uninjured side after correct rotation has been restored. C, The contour of the lesser trochanter is diminished as the proximal fragment is internally rotated relative to the distal fragment. This indicates an overall external rotation deformity of the extremity. D, The contour of the lesser trochanter is enlarged as the proximal fragment is externally rotated relative to the distal fragment. This indicates an overall internal rotation deformity of the extremity. (Redrawn from Krettek C: Fractures of the distal femur. In Browner BD, Jupiter JB, Levine AM, et al, editors: Skeletal trauma, 4th ed. Philadelphia, 2009, Elsevier.) SEE TECHNIQUE 55.8.