Written by MIKE MAGEE
Consultants are enthusiastic about the integration of AI in Medicine, with a focus on GenAI assistants, workforce “upskilling,” reshaped customer service, and new roles supported by budget reallocations. However, the field of surgery has been relatively quiet in comparison. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) released a report in June 2023, acknowledging the disruptive potential of AI in surgical care. They highlighted the effectiveness of AI-based systems in mapping out surgical approaches, guiding procedures, particularly in laparoscopic and robotic surgery settings.
The ACS remains cautious about the integration of robots in surgery due to the high stakes and precision required in surgical settings. Johnson & Johnson’s AI surgery arm, MedTech, emphasizes the role of surgeons as continuous learners and trainers, striving to make healthcare smarter and more connected. Surgeons anticipate the impact of AI in surgery, particularly in enhancing diagnostics, safety feedback, precision, and outcomes.
As technology continues to advance in the surgical suite, the incorporation of AI is seen as a valuable enhancement rather than a replacement for surgical roles. The combination of vast data and AI technologies has the potential to revolutionize the patient, doctor, and hospital experience. While challenges like liability, quality control, and patient trust remain, the benefits of AI in surgery are expected to outweigh the investment in time and resources.
Mike Magee MD is a Medical Historian and regular contributor to THCB. He is the author of CODE BLUE: Inside the Medical Industrial Complex (Grove/2020)
