A method and apparatus for performing a minimally invasive ( i . e ., with the wound developed under an incision being substantially the same size as the incision throughout the depth of the wound) total hip arthroplasty. An approximately 3.75 - 5 centimeter (1.5 - 2 inch) anterior incision is made in line with the femoral neck. The femoral neck is severed from the femoral shaft and removed through the anterior incision. The acetabulum is prepared for receiving an acetabular cup through the anterior incision, and the acetabular cup is placed into the acetabulum through the anterior incision. A posterior incision of approximately 2.5 - 3.75 centimeters (1 - 1.5 inches) is generally aligned with the axis of the femoral shaft and a tubular posterior retractor is utilized to provide access to the femoral shaft through the posterior incision. Preparation of the femoral shaft including the reaming and rasping thereof is performed through the posterior incision and posterior retractor. A bag element is utilized to cover the femoral stem and keep it clean as it is inserted through the posterior incision. Procedures being performed through the posterior incision may be observed through the anterior incision and vice versa. The acetabular liner and femoral head are inserted through the anterior incision and operably positioned. Novel instruments including an osteotomy guide; an awl for locating a posterior incision aligned with the axis of the femoral shaft; a tubular posterior retractor; a selectively lockable rasp handle with an engagement guide; and a selectively lockable provisional neck are utilized to perform the total hip arthroplasty of the current invention.