Development and application of unilateral biportal endoscopy in lumbar diseases / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

The unilateral biportal endoscopic technique is defined as posterior unilateral of two small incision with established percutaneous observation channel and endoscopic observation channel in monitoring field. The operation tools were placed within the channel for each operation inside and outside vertebral canal. The characteristics of dual channel intervention make this technology different from coaxial endoscopic technology. This technique has a clear vision for flexible and convenient operation with the advantages of relatively simple surgical instrument requirements. In recent years, the use of unilateral dual channel endoscopic surgery in treating spinal diseases was gradually increasing, especially in the removal of nucleus including lumbar intervertebral disc protrusion and lumbar spinal stenosis disease decompression, and in endoscopic space-occupying lesions such as vertebral fusion and spinal canal between inside and outside. It was also applied in cervical and thoracic diseases with good clinical effects. Its advantages include less surgical trauma and faster recovery process. In addition, it has a large surgical field of vision under the microscope for easy identification of structures and surgery and with relatively gentle learning curve. Thus, it is conducive to beginners' mastery. However, complications such as nerve injury and postoperative lower limb numbness are still frequently reported. Some factors have to be considered, including insufficient understanding of the new technology, the local anatomy of the dual-channel endoscope, the operation of the spinal canal under the microscope. The successful application of the technique in treating various lumbar diseases needs understanding the operation process of the technique and local anatomy under the microscope.