EBITDA ( also called Adjusted EBITDA ) is defined as income from continuing operations before deducting net interest expense , income taxes , asset retirement obligation expense , and depreciation , depletion and amortization . � � EBITDA , which is not calculated identically by all companies , is not a substitute for operating income , net income or cash flow as determined in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles . � � Management uses EBITDA as a key measure of operating performance and also believes it is a useful indicator of the company 's ability to meet debt service and capital expenditure requirements .