Shillong: Surgeons at the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) in Shillong performed the first Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic (UBE) surgery in Northeast India’s public sector. The team treated a patient from Assam suffering from a lumbar disc prolapse that compressed spinal nerves.
UBE uses a keyhole technique to reach the spine through tiny incisions. This method avoids the muscle damage seen in traditional open surgery. Patients benefit from less pain, smaller wounds, and a faster return to normal life. The magnified endoscopic view allows for precise nerve decompression.
Dr. Sachlang Debbarma led the orthopaedics team. He worked alongside Dr. Dinendra Chirom, Dr. Shanborlang, and Dr. Ajoy Baishya. Assistant Professor Dr. Dasara Nongbet handled the anaesthesia. Watila Chungmuro and her nursing team provided support.
Prof. Bhaskar Borgohain directed the operation. Senior faculty members Prof. Sharat Agarwal and Dr. Tashi G. Khonglah offered guidance during the procedure.
NEIGRIHMS Director Prof. Nalin Mehta praised the surgical staff. He stated, "The introduction of UBE surgery provides patients in the region access to advanced spine procedures closer to home." The institute continues to push for better tertiary healthcare and updated surgical tools in the region.
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