Assessment of the learning curve for lumbar microendoscopic discectomy

Abstract

Objective Microendoscopic discectomy(MED) is a minimally invasive operation that allows rapid recovery from surgery.The authors evaluated the learning curve of the beginners in performing lumbar MED.Methods We retrospectively reviewed 50 cases of lumbar MED performed by the same surgeon without previous experience of MED.The cases were equally divided into groups A,B,C,D and E according to the sequence of operations.We compared the operating time,blood loss,conversion to open discectomy and intraoperative complications among the five groups.Results There were significant differences among the five groups with respect to the operating time and blood loss(P 0.01),but not among groups C,D and E.Dural tear occurred in 2 cases and MED was converted to open discectomy in another 4 in group A.There was 1 case of nerve root injury in group B.Conclusion From the perspective of the learning curve,spinal surgeons can master the skills of lumbar MED after some 30 cases of performance.