Choosing between arthroscopy and open surgery is not about which one is better, but which one is appropriate for each injury; an accurate diagnosis is the key to successful treatment.

With the growing amount of medical information available, Dr. Jorge Cervantes, a specialist in Orthopedics and Joint Surgery, emphasizes the importance of understanding that not all surgeries are the same and that the success of any procedure begins with an accurate diagnosis.

When it comes to joint injuries, patients often hear terms such as arthroscopy or open surgery without fully understanding the differences. According to the specialist, each technique addresses specific needs depending on the area of the body and the type of injury.

“Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that we perform through small incisions. This results in less pain, less inflammation, and a faster recovery for the patient,” explains Dr. Cervantes.

However, not every case can be treated with this procedure. “When injuries are more complex, open surgery remains essential because it provides greater exposure, allowing us to properly repair the damaged structures,” he adds.

The specialist emphasizes that the focus should not be on choosing the newest or most popular technique, but on identifying the most appropriate one for each case. “The most important question is not which surgery is better, but which one is right for each patient’s injury,” he says.

Each joint—whether the knee, shoulder, ankle, or hip—has unique conditions that require a detailed evaluation. For this reason, treatment must be completely personalized.