Digital tools in neurosurgical pathways: considerations for the future

With aspects of neurosurgery becoming increasingly digitised, there is a need to understand both the prevalence and impact of digital tools on clinical and organisational outcomes. Consequently, we sought to evaluate evidence of the use of digital tools in neurosurgical settings. We systematically searched three public databases for relevant articles: 283 articles were screened using inclusion/exclusion criteria, with 26 selected for further analysis. Many studies reported on the use of simulation, smartphones, telemedicine and robotics in neurosurgical pathways from education through to postoperative care. Though generally beneficial for both patient and organisational outcomes, a number of considerations were highlighted. Many referred to protection of patient data, cost and requirements to ensure socially disadvantaged groups are not further excluded by the move to digital services. Fortunately, with further innovation, many of these limitations look set to dissipate over coming years, paving the way for a more streamlined neurosurgical pathway.