Background <p>Arthroscopic surgery has become a&#xa0;cornerstone of modern orthopedic and trauma care. Despite increasing standardization of surgical techniques, the indications for operative treatment remain strongly influenced by clinical experience.</p> Purpose <p>The aim of this study was to investigate expectations regarding surgical treatment among physicians at different stages of training and to evaluate the perceived role of nonoperative treatment strategies.</p> Material and methods <p>An anonymous online survey was conducted among members of the AGA (Society for Arthroscopy and Joint Surgery). Participants were presented with standardized case reports of a&#xa0;degenerative meniscal lesion and a&#xa0;partial rotator cuff tear. Recommendations regarding treatment strategy and duration of conservative treatment were recorded. Data were analyzed using R statistical software.</p> Results <p>A&#xa0;total of 129 physicians participated in the survey. Across all levels of training, an initially conservative treatment approach was preferred for both clinical scenarios. No consistent association between level of training and treatment decisions was observed, although a&#xa0;weak significant association was found for degenerative meniscal lesions.</p> Conclusion <p>The results suggest that the level of training does not consistently influence therapeutic decision-making. Regardless of experience level, an initial conservative treatment approach is predominantly preferred in typical borderline indications.</p>