Wound dehiscence following biportal endoscopic versus microscopic spine surgery for single-level lumbar decompression: a post hoc analysis of two randomized controlled trials.
Neurosurg FocusOct 1, 2026
Sang-Min Park, Kwang-Sup Song, Ho-Joong Kim et al.
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In 30 seconds
This post hoc analysis of two randomized controlled trials compared wound dehiscence rates between biportal endoscopic spine surgery (BESS) and microscopic spine surgery (MSS) in 211 patients undergoing single-level lumbar decompression. Wound dehiscence occurred in 9 patients (4.3%), all in the MSS group, indicating a significant difference (0.0% vs 8.7%; OR 0.046, p = 0.001).
Key findings
- Wound dehiscence occurred in 4.3% of patients, all in the MSS group.
- BESS showed a significantly lower rate of wound dehiscence compared to MSS (0.0% vs 8.7%).
- Incision length ≥ 35 mm had the highest risk ratio (RR 15.44) for wound dehiscence.
- Drainage volume ≥ 100 mL was a significant risk factor for MSS patients (RR 9.17).
Why it matters
Understanding the differences in wound dehiscence rates between surgical techniques can guide clinicians in selecting appropriate surgical approaches and managing postoperative care, particularly in monitoring high-risk patients.