Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of unilateral biportal endoscopic technique for the treatment of infectious spondylitis

Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of unilateral biportal endoscopic technique (UBE) and percutaneous endoscopic debridement, irrigation, and drainage for infectious spondylitis, and provide evidence for clinical decision-making.Methods: A retrospective study included 108 patients (February 2023-May 2024) divided into a biportal group (n=54, UBE) and single portal group (n=54, percutaneous endoscopic surgery).Surgery-related indicators, inflammatory markers (ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C-reactive protein), TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α)), VAS (visual analog scale), ODI (Oswestry disability index), Kirkaldy-Willis score, Cobb angle, and bacterial culture positive rate were compared.Multiple linear regression analyzed factors influencing postoperative 120-day ESR.Results: The biportal group had longer surgical duration, drainage time, and more fluoroscopy (all P0.05).ESR, CRP, TNF-α in biportal group were lower at 90 and 120 days postoperatively (P