Objective To study the effectiveness of anterolateral C-shaped approach in the treatment of intertrochanteric fracture of the femur in elderly patient by comparing with traditional anterolateral approach. Methods Between April 2010 and November 2011, 66 patients with intertrochanteric fracture of the femur were analyzed retrospectively. Of 66 patients, 37 underwent improved anterolateral C-shaped approach combined with fixation of dynamic hip screw (DHS) (improved group), and 29 underwent traditional anterolateral approach combined with fixation of DHS (conventional group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, injury cause, side, disease duration, fracture type, and complication between 2 groups (P gt; 0.05). The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, and hospitalization time were recorded; and X-ray films were taken to observe the fracture healing. The hip function was evaluated according to self-established criterion. Results The operation was successfully completed in all patients, and primary healing of incision was achieved. All patients were followed up 12-24 months (mean, 17.8 months). Bone union was achieved in both groups; the fracture healing time was 3-6 months (mean, 4.8 months). No loosening or breaking of internal fixation was observed during follow-up period. The operation time and postoperative drainage volume of improved group were significantly less than those of conventional group (P lt; 0.05); no significant difference was found in intraoperative blood loss and hospitalization days between 2 groups (P gt; 0.05). According to self-established criterion, improved group was significantly better than conventional group in recovery of hip joint motion and function at 6 and 12 months after operation (P lt; 0.05). Conclusion Anterolateral C-shaped approach combined with DHS could minimize muscle injury and scar formation, which is beneficial to surgical exposure and early postoperative rehabilitation.