Conference Report | The 7th Standardized Training Workshop on Disc Repair and Reconstruction Successfully Held at Henan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital

On August 21, 2025, Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital of Henan Province (Henan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital) successfully hosted the 7th Standardized Training Workshop on Disc Repair and Reconstruction in Zhengzhou. As a highly influential professional training event in the field of disc repair, this workshop adhered to the principles of small-class teaching, in-depth exchange, and nationwide impact, attracting over a dozen orthopedic experts, clinicians, and professionals from across China. The event aimed to promote the standardized clinical application of disc repair and reconstruction techniques, while fostering academic exchange and technological innovation.

Expert Leadership and Opening Remarks
The workshop was led by Professor Huimin Zhu and Professor Fanguo Kong, with participation from leading domestic authorities, including Professor Yue Li from Sichuan Orthopedic Hospital and Professor Yang Zhang from the Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital. Notably, Professor Li, one of the pioneers of endoscopic annulus fibrosus suturing in China, shared his expertise on-site, inspiring all attendees with his rigorous academic approach.

The opening remarks by Professors Kong, Li, and Zhang emphasized that the workshop’s mission was to facilitate the standardized promotion and clinical application of minimally invasive spine repair and reconstruction techniques. They encouraged participants to acquire these core skills through systematic learning and in-depth exchanges, enhancing their overall clinical capabilities.

In-Depth Exploration of Cutting-Edge Techniques
The three professors delivered specialized lectures covering the latest advances in spine repair. Professor Kong presented “Clinical Applications of Endoscopic Bone Tunnel Anchoring Suturing”, Professor Li analyzed “Current Status and Development of Endoscopic Treatment for Cervical Radiculopathy”, and Professor Zhang showcased “Smart Navigation Empowering Unilateral Bi-portal Endoscopic (UBE) Surgery: Integration of Precision and Minimally Invasive Innovation”. The lectures generated strong interest and active discussion among participants.

Additional lectures by Professors Jie Yao, Changsheng Zhang, Chunxiao Xu, Qipeng Pan, Jiyao Luan, and Junqing Li highlighted practical applications of annulus fibrosus suturing through extensive clinical cases, demonstrating the technique’s adaptability across various surgical approaches and spinal segments, while providing attendees with both theoretical guidance and technical references.

Showcasing Surgical Excellence
The live surgery observation sessions were a major highlight. Led by Professor Kong, in collaboration with Professors Li, Luan, and Pan, multiple demonstrations of endoscopic-assisted annulus fibrosus suturing were conducted. Procedures included both traditional suturing methods and advanced bone tunnel techniques.

During these key steps, Professor Kong combined precise operations with detailed explanations of technique, emphasising the clinical value of effectively closing annulus fibrosus defects to significantly reduce postoperative recurrence risks. His skillful and articulate guidance received widespread attention and acclaim from participants.

Interactive Discussions and Hands-On Learning
The workshop fostered lively discussions, with participants actively engaging on questions arising from lectures and surgical demonstrations. Experts provided thorough professional guidance, ensuring that attendees gained practical insights and a deeper understanding of clinical application.

Empowering Clinical Practice
The workshop concluded with the awarding of completion certificates by Professor Kong, symbolizing both recognition of the participants’ achievements and the beginning of a new professional journey. Attendees highly praised the training, especially the live surgery demonstrations, noting their clarity and practical relevance. Many remarked that the workshop not only updated their knowledge of minimally invasive spine treatment but also enhanced their surgical skills and confidence in advancing disc repair and reconstruction in their clinical practice.

The successful completion of the 7th Standardized Training Workshop at Henan Provincial Orthopedic Hospital further strengthens nationwide knowledge sharing, promotes innovation in spine repair techniques, and ultimately contributes to better patient outcomes and the advancement of minimally invasive spinal surgery.