Spine surgeons and interventional spine physicians who wish to practice endoscopic spine surgery should be required to complete formal training, according to spine surgeons at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque in a Journal of Spine article.
Here are three things to know.
1. The authors propose that standard ESS training be developed for interventional spine physicians within a spine surgery training program. Focused training in ESS is also important for orthopedic spine and neurosurgeons.
2. A peer-reviewed board for ESS should be established to assess practitioners' technical proficiency and expertise, the authors argue. The board should be comprised of spine surgeons trained in ESS and interventional spine physicians.
3. ESS practitioners must be able to manage complications or partner with providers who can assist in complication management.
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