The role of artificial intelligence in surgical simulation

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Training
• Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Background:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly utilized in surgical simulation to improve surgeon training and patient safety.
• AI enhances preoperative planning, intraoperative guidance, and personalized feedback within surgical simulations.
• Current AI applications in surgical visualization aid anatomical education and presurgical assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state, challenges, and future prospects of AI in surgical simulation.
• To present a list of FDA/CE approved AI-powered surgical simulation devices.
• To highlight the gap between academic advancements and commercialization of AI surgical simulators.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on AI in surgical simulation.
• Analysis of current AI technologies in surgical visualization.
• Compilation of regulatory-approved AI-powered surgical simulation devices.

Main Results:

• AI-supported surgical simulators show promise but face significant barriers to commercialization, including high costs and limited superiority evidence.
• A gap exists between academic research and the widespread clinical and commercial application of AI-enabled surgical simulators.
• Existing AI-powered surgical simulation devices approved by regulatory bodies are limited.

Conclusions:

• Further clinical validation of AI-supported surgical simulators is crucial.
• Addressing implementation costs and demonstrating clear superiority are key to wider adoption.
• Increased regulatory approval and clinical assessment will drive the future of AI in surgical education.