With the aim of “providing structured and practical training on this innovative technique, which has been transforming spinal surgery”, the 1st Iberian Course on Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy was held on February 21st and 22nd in Porto, with the support of Hospital da Luz Arrábida (HLA) and the presence of national and international specialists in orthopedics and neurosurgery. As explained by HLA orthopedist and chairman of the International Society of Biportal Endoscopy, Eduardo Moreira Pinto , one of those responsible for organizing this course, “being a very recent technique, biportal endoscopy is still in the expansion phase in the world, and we felt that there was great interest on the part of specialists in deepening their knowledge and gaining practical experience. Furthermore, the exchange of experiences with international experts is essential to ensure the safe and effective implementation of the technique.” The course, which included a practical workshop at the Anatomical Center of the Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), in Porto, where participants practiced surgical techniques on cadavers, and a series of lectures at the Hilton-Gaia Congress Center, in Vila Nova de Gaia, where the latest innovations and challenges in the area of spine surgery were discussed, represented, according to Eduardo Moreira Pinto, “ a unique opportunity for specialists to learn directly from experienced surgeons, observe the technical nuances and understand the advantages of biportal endoscopy”. According to this specialist from Hospital da Luz Arrábida, “the practical component is one of the most valuable points, allowing participants to develop essential skills for the safe performance of this minimally invasive approach. Mastering this technique allows us to offer patients a less aggressive alternative, with faster recovery and excellent functional results.” The course was held with the high sponsorship of Hospital da Luz Arrábida, support considered by the organizers as “fundamental”. “It was the largest course ever held on endoscopy in Portugal. In addition to logistical and structural support, the Hospital has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation and continuing medical education, an involvement that reinforces its position as a reference institution in the adoption of new surgical techniques, always with the aim of improving the care provided to patients”, says Eduardo Moreira Pinto. Unilateral biportal endoscopy has gained prominence in spine surgery and is increasingly being used as a minimally invasive approach. Today, it is part of the surgical practice of the Hospital da Luz Arrábida team and has shown very positive results. “The advantages in terms of less aggression to the tissues, less post-operative pain and faster recovery make it a very attractive alternative to conventional surgeries. However, its widespread implementation will depend on adequate training of surgeons and adaptation of hospital infrastructure,” explains the specialist, who clarifies: “As it is a recent technique, it requires specific training and a period of adaptation and personal growth. Furthermore, hospitals need to have adequate equipment and there needs to be acceptance by health systems and insurance companies to facilitate its implementation” – something that Hospital da Luz Arrábida has invested in. On the other hand, “the Hospital’s involvement (in this area) demonstrates its commitment to innovation and excellence in the provision of healthcare. Investing in medical training and research allows professionals to always be up to date and prepared to offer patients the best treatments available”, says the orthopedist, concluding: “This support for training and innovation places Hospital da Luz Arrábida as a reference center in orthopedics and spine surgery. The focus on advanced techniques attracts highly qualified professionals and allows us to offer patients less invasive and more effective surgical alternatives.” Eduardo Moreira Pinto is today an international reference in this area, a recognition that the specialist says is “a reflection of continuous work, dedication to innovation and knowledge sharing”. The doctor at Hospital da Luz Arrábida has been involved in the development of spinal endoscopy, both in Portugal and internationally, through training specialists inside and outside the country, organizing scientific events and performing innovative surgeries. “The most important thing, however, is not the reference title, but the positive impact we were able to generate for our patients and the medical community. The goal is to continue learning, teaching and evolving to offer always get the best possible treatment”, he concludes.
