Perception of the Learning Curve for Endoscopic Spine Procedures, a Survey of Spinal Surgeons in Latam

Abstract

Objective: Full endoscopic uniportal spine procedures offer the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. One of the reasons its worldwide acceptance hasn’t been as expected is because of the perception of a long learning curve. This multicentric survey-based study is designed to identify the perception of the learning curve needed for full endoscopic spine procedures. It was applied to spine surgeons of Latin America and looked to assess the different variables that influence the perception of a learning curve. Methods: A 23-item questionnaire focusing on demographics, experience, and education regarding full endoscopic spine surgery was sent to all registered surgeons in the AO Spine LATAM (a specialty group within the AO Foundation) database. Data analysis was done based on the answers provided. Results: 296 members (out of 1164 AOSpine active members) answered the survey. 54.73% of the responders think that the best way to learn the technique is a combination of an Observership with an expert surgeon, cadaveric or model workshop, and operating with an expert. Most of the responders agree that 26 is the average of surgeries needed to master either the interlaminar approach or the transforaminal approach. Conclusions: The learning curve perceived by spine surgeons is below what is reported in the literature for both interlaminar and transforaminal approaches. Endolif was found to be the least performed procedure. Level of Evidence I; Local and current random sample surveys (or censuses).