A comprehensive exposure of the entire capsule of the hip joint, the acetabulum, and the upper end of the femur has been described. The operation can be performed without injury to important blood vessels or nerves. Extensive division of tendinous insertions into the upper end of the femur is necessary. This surgical approach is not simple and should be reserved for resection of the upper end of the femur, for arthrodesis, or for extensive reconstruction of the hip joint.