Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy vs. unilateral biportal endoscopy for far lateral lumbar disc herniation: a retrospective comparative study

Objective: To compare the early clinical efficacy, perioperative parameters, and safety profiles of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) and unilateral biportal endoscopic (UBE) discectomy in treating single-level far lateral lumbar disc herniation (FLLDH). Methods: = 43) based on the surgical technique received. Perioperative indicators (operative time, incision length, blood loss, hospital stay) and clinical outcomes-assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for back/leg pain and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively-were compared. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests, chi-square tests, and repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: = 0.024). Conclusion: Both PTED and UBE are effective minimally invasive techniques for FLLDH, offering comparable and excellent mid-term clinical outcomes. PTED offers advantages in reduced surgical trauma and faster early recovery, whereas UBE provides superior endoscopic visualization. The choice of technique can be individualized based on patient characteristics and surgical expertise.