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Arthroscopy vs. Open Surgery: Which Is Right for You? By Dr. Jagan Mohana Reddy
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, CARE Hospitals – Hitech City, Hyderabad
If you’ve been advised to undergo surgery for a joint injury or ligament tear, you’ve probably heard of two common options — Arthroscopy and Open Surgery.
Both can deliver excellent results, but the right choice depends on the nature of your injury, your age, and your activity levels. Let’s explore what each involves and how to decide which one suits you best.
Arthroscopy, often called keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure in which the surgeon makes tiny cuts and inserts a small camera (arthroscope) to view and repair the joint.
Commonly used for:
ACL or PCL ligament injuries
Meniscus or cartilage tears
Shoulder instability or dislocation
Sports-related joint problems
Benefits of Arthroscopy:
Tiny incisions mean less pain and faster recovery
Short hospital stay, often within a day or two
Minimal scarring
Quick return to sports, work, and daily life
Open surgery is the traditional approach, involving a larger incision that allows direct access to the affected joint. It’s best suited for complicated or severe injuries that need extensive repairs.
Commonly used for:
Complex fractures
Severe arthritis or deformities
Joint replacement or reconstruction
Benefits of Open Surgery:
Offers a clear, direct view for complex conditions
Ideal for major joint corrections
Allows for implant placement when necessary
| Feature | Arthroscopy | Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | Small (0.5–1 cm) | Larger (5–10 cm) |
| Recovery Time | 2–4 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Hospital Stay | 1–2 days | 3–5 days |
| Scarring | Minimal | Visible |
| Pain Level | Mild | Moderate |
| Best For | Sports injuries, ligament tears | Major fractures, replacements |
You might be a good candidate if you experience:
Shoulder instability or frequent dislocation
Meniscus or cartilage injuries
Sports injuries not healing with rest or therapy
Your doctor may suggest open surgery in cases of:
Severe fractures or bone misalignment
Advanced arthritis requiring joint replacement
Neglected or old injuries
Multiple joint issues or deformities
With arthroscopy, most patients walk within 24–48 hours and resume light activities within a few weeks.
Open surgery takes longer to recover from, but thanks to modern rehabilitation and physiotherapy, the results are often stronger and longer-lasting — especially when performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon.
At CARE Hospitals, Dr. Jagan and his team use advanced imaging and surgical tools to deliver faster, safer, and more precise outcomes for every patient.
Both arthroscopy and open surgery are effective — the difference lies in the type of injury and your recovery goals. Consulting a skilled orthopedic surgeon helps ensure that you get the right treatment for your body and lifestyle.
CARE Hospitals, HITEC City: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Mon–Sat)
Preethi Hospital, KPHB (Kukatpally): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
307, Remedy Hospital Ln, MIG 1, KPHB Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana 500072.
Appointments are recommended.
You can book an appointment by calling 9652133270, through the hospital appointment desk, or via the Book Appointment button on the website.
Dr. Jagan Mohana Reddy has the following Qualifications:
Call +91-40-68106529 to book an appointment with the doctor.
Dr. Jagan has 24 years of experience in orthopedics, including extensive training and practice in India and the UK..
Dr. Jagan Mohana Reddy specialisations include:
Dr. Jagan Mohana Reddy is the Best Orthopedic Doctor in Hyderabad with extensive experience in:
