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Updated: Apr 15, 2026

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Author Spotlight: Unveiling the Potential of TUBE Technique in Spinal Surgery
Published on: November 17, 2023
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Cost-effective unilateral biportal endoscopic microdiscectomy: illustrative case
Shivani Mody1, Tomo Kinoshita2, Tyler C Steed2,3
1Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Virginia Campus, Blacksburg, Virginia.
Journal of Neurosurgery. Case Lessons
|April 13, 2026
Summary
This study presents a cost-effective method for unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) spine surgery using standard equipment. This approach makes advanced UBE microdiscectomy more accessible, reducing financial barriers for surgeons and institutions.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Background:
- Unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) spine surgery offers enhanced visualization and minimal tissue disruption.
- It utilizes separate portals for visualization and instrumentation, mimicking open surgery's tactile feedback and movement freedom.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a detailed guide for UBE microdiscectomy using widely available standard arthroscopic and basic spine equipment.
- To overcome the capital expense barrier associated with specialized endoscopic systems for UBE surgery.
Main Methods:
- The technical paper details patient positioning, operating room setup, and portal placement.
- It outlines a systematic approach to decompression, including establishing the visualization window and managing hemostasis.
- Fluid management and postoperative considerations are also discussed.
Main Results:
- The described technique leverages standard instrumentation to make UBE surgery more accessible.
- This approach aims to lower the financial barrier to adopting UBE procedures without compromising surgical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- This method makes the benefits of UBE spine surgery more attainable for surgeons and institutions.
- It provides technical tips to shorten the learning curve for UBE microdiscectomy.

