SURGEONS’ PERCEPTION OF THE LEARNING CURVE IN ENDOSCOPIC SPINE SURGERY

ABSTRACT Introduction: Endoscopic lumbar spine surgery is an effective approach for treating degenerative diseases, offering advantages such as shorter recovery time and preservation of anatomical structures. Compared to conventional techniques, it presents excellent results, especially in cases of a herniated disc. The interlaminar and transforaminal approaches allow interventions for conditions such as hernias and spinal stenosis. However, they require a significant learning curve, aiming to ensure better results. Objective: To evaluate the perception of spine surgeons regarding the learning curve in endoscopic spine surgery for discectomy and low lumbar decompression. Method: Prospective, descriptive, quantitative study, between the months of June and October / 2024, with its database formed from the Google Forms platform, through a simple multiple-choice questionnaire. Results: The study included 44 participants, predominantly men, with up to five years of experience. 79.5% reported experience in the interlaminar endoscopic technique of the lumbosacral segment, and 36.4% of them were beginners. Experience varied, with 43.2% of the physicians performing up to 20 procedures and 25% more than 150, reflecting a diversity of technical maturity. The estimated learning curve was between 20 and 40 procedures, with operational challenges such as adaptation to the instruments and hand-eye coordination. Conclusion: The study revealed that most participants had initial experience, with common operational difficulties, as well as frequent complications - recurrence of disc herniation and insufficient decompression. The importance of continuous practical training increases, with the expectation that, as this training becomes more in-depth, complications will decrease, making the technique more efficient. Level of Evidence III; Cross-sectional Study.