Introduction
General Current Indications
Learning Curve and Number of Cases
Ten-Tiered Framework
First tier/generation: lumbar lateral recess decompression
Second tier/generation: lumbar discectomy
Third tier/generation: lumbar bilateral decompression
Fourth tier/generation: lumbar extraforaminal approach
Fifth tier/generation: lumbar UBE-TLIF
Sixth tier/generation: cervical foraminotomy
Seventh tier/generation: cervical discectomy
Eighth tier/generation: cervical laminectomy
Ninth tier/generation: thoracic laminectomy
Tenth tier/generation: thoracic transforaminal approach
Discussion
General rationale
Integration of training methods into the framework
Competency-based progression and milestones in UBE training
Specific rationale
Lumbar region and its generations
Cervical region and its generations
Thoracic region and its generations
Conclusions
Key Points
The 10-tier framework proposes a structured 10-level progression for unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) based on surgical complexity.
Skill building in UBE starts with basic lumbar procedures and advances to complex cervical and thoracic surgeries.
The learning curve and mastery can be softened by combining different already established educational methods like virtual reality, simulations, cadaver labs, and mentorship.
Competency-based progression emphasizes the attainment of defined surgical skills over a predetermined number of cases.
Analytical tools such as cumulative summation methods can be employed to establish objective benchmarks for skill acquisition based on specific performance criteria.