From May 23 to 25, 2025, the 6th West Lake UBE Academic Conference and the 1st ISUBE Academic Conference were successfully held in Hangzhou. The event brought together leading experts in minimally invasive spine surgery from China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and other regions to discuss the latest advancements and clinical applications of UBE (Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic) technology. It also marked Asia’s annual grand event in spine surgery, signifying UBE technology entry into a new phase of international exchange.
Key attendees included Cui Weiwu, Member of the Party Leadership Group and Deputy Director of the Hangzhou Municipal Health Commission; Tu Xiao, Deputy Party Secretary and President of Hangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. Fu Xueyan, Vice President of the hospital; Dr. Pan Hao, Director of the Orthopedics and Traumatology Department; and Dr. Zhang Wei, current President of the ISUBE Association (ISUBE).
This event holds milestone significance. It not only established a high-level academic platform for global UBE technology development but also advanced the technique’s international promotion and application in minimally invasive spine surgery. Domestic and international experts shared innovative achievements and clinical experiences in treating various spinal conditions through keynote speeches demonstrations, and case discussions, fostering global academic collaboration and technological integration.
A solemn flag handover ceremony was held during the conference. Prof. Zheng Liheng, President of the Macau Medical Science and Technology Research Association, and Prof. Wu Hao from The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University announced that The 2nd ISUBE Academic Conference will take place in Macau in 2026. This decision underscores the expanding global influence of UBE technology and provides a broader platform for orthopedic surgeons in the Asia-Pacific and beyond to exchange knowledge.
In closing speech, Prof. Zhang Wei, ISUBE President and Deputy Director of the Orthopedics and Traumatology Department at Hangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, stated that efforts will continue to strengthen international collaboration, promote standardization of UBE technology, and benefit more patients. The conference’s success laid a solid foundation for the global dissemination of UBE technology and injected new momentum into the advancement of minimally invasive spine surgery worldwide.
