[Effectiveness comparison of transforaminal endoscopy and unilateral biportal endoscopy for far lateral lumbar disc herniation].

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) and unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) discectomy in the treatment of far lateral lumbar disc herniation (FLLDH). Methods: >0.05), such as gender, age, body mass index, responsible segment, preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for low back/leg pain, and modified Oswestry disability index (ODI). The operation time, incision length, intraoperative blood loss, and length of hospital stay in two groups were recorded. The VAS score was used to evaluate the severity of low back and leg pain, and the ODI was employed to assess the spinal functional status. X-ray films combined with CT three-dimensional reconstruction and MRI were performed to confirm the nerve decompression effect and soft tissue repair status. Results: >0.05). Radiological re-examinations showed that both groups had limited resection of articular processes, adequate spinal canal decompression, good nerve root release, and satisfactory lumbar stability. No patients experienced incomplete decompression or required reoperation during follow-up. Conclusion: Both PTED and UBE discectomy are effective minimally invasive approaches for FLLDH with confirmed short-term effectiveness. PTED offers advantages in reduced trauma and faster recovery, whereas UBE discectomy provides superior endoscopic visualization with lower nerve root injury risk.