Future of Artificial Intelligence in Surgery: A Narrative Review.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the capability of a machineto execute cognitive processes that are typically considered to be functions of the human brain. It is the study of algorithms that enable machines to reason and perform mental tasks, including problem-solving, object and word recognition, and decision-making. Once considered science fiction,AI today is a fact and an increasingly prevalent subject in both academic and popular literature. It is expected to reshape medicine, benefiting both healthcare professionalsand patients. Machine learning (ML) is a subset of AI that allows machines to learn and make predictions by recognizing patterns, thus empowering the medical team to deliver better care topatients through accurate diagnosis and treatment. ML is expanding its footprint in a variety of surgical specialties, includinggeneral surgery, ophthalmology, cardiothoracic surgery, and vascular surgery, to name a few. In recent years, we have seen AI make its way into the operating theatres. Though it has not yet been able to replace the surgeon, it has the potential to become a highly valuable surgical tool. Rest assured that the day is not far off whenAI shall playa significant intraoperative role, a projection that is currently marred by safety concerns. This review aims to explore the present application of AI in various surgical disciplines and how it benefits both patients and physicians, as well as the current obstacles and limitations facing its seemingly unstoppable rise.