Evaluation of the value of enhanced recovery after surgery in postoperative recovery following unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) on postoperative recovery after unilateral double-channel endoscopic lumbar disc fusion.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 128 patients undergoing surgery between May 2024 and May 2025. The patients were divided into a conventional group (n=68) and an ERAS group (n=60). Baseline data, intraoperative parameters, complications, pain scores, functional ability, and quality of life were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The ERAS group had significantly better intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage volume, drainage time, bed rest, and length of hospital stay than the control group (P<0.05). Three days after surgery, the ERAS group had significantly lower limb and back Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and ODI (Oswestry disability index) than the control group (P<0.05). Three months after surgery, there was no statistically significant difference in fusion grade and excellent/good rate (P=0.595). The ERAS group had significantly better quality of life than the control group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The ERAS protocol can promote postoperative recovery, alleviate early pain, and improve quality of life, which is worthy of clinical promotion.