In a pioneering medical achievement, surgeons in Bedfordshire have successfully conducted brain surgery with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). The procedure was performed on a patient named Gilbert, a father of two, who was diagnosed with an 11mm benign pituitary tumor. This tumor was located near critical blood vessels and optic nerves, causing him to experience narrowed peripheral vision. Without surgical intervention, Gilbert faced the risk of losing his sight.
The surgery utilized an endoscope that was inserted through the nose to reach the base of the skull. The tumor was concealed behind layers of bone and membranes, making its removal particularly challenging due to the proximity of vital nerves and blood vessels. Surgeons estimated a 25-50% risk of not completely removing the tumor, while the likelihood of damaging a major blood vessel was between 0.5-2%.
During the operation, AI technology analyzed the surgical video in real-time, tracking instruments and identifying areas where hidden vessels and nerves might be located. This information aided surgeons in pinpointing the safest locations for tumor removal.
The AI system was developed by researchers at University College London (UCL), who trained it using hundreds of videos from previous pituitary tumor surgeries. According to Professor Hani Marcus, a participant in the operation, the AI acts as a “second pair of expert eyes” for the surgeon.
Medical professionals emphasized that AI serves only as an assistant during the procedure, with the final control resting in the hands of the surgeons. Looking ahead, the team aims to innovate a “ChatGPT for surgeons” that could provide real-time recommendations to physicians.
Post-surgery, Gilbert reported a rapid improvement in his vision. Eight weeks after the operation, he noted a resurgence of energy and the absence of side effects he had previously experienced.
“It has given me my life back,” he stated.
