Artificial Intelligence-What to Expect From Machine Learning and Deep Learning in Hernia Surgery

This mini-review explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within hernia surgery, highlighting the role of Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL). The term AI incorporates various technologies including ML, Neural Networks (NN), and DL. Classical ML algorithms depend on structured, labeled data for predictions, requiring significant human oversight. In contrast, DL, a subset of ML, generally leverages unlabeled, raw data such as images and videos to autonomously identify patterns and make intricate deductions. This process is enabled by neural networks used in DL, where hidden layers between the input and output capture complex data patterns. These layers' configuration and weighting are pivotal in developing effective models for various applications, such as image and speech recognition, natural language processing, and more specifically, surgical procedures and outcomes in hernia surgery. Significant advancements have been achieved with DL models in surgical settings, particularly in predicting the complexity of abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) and other postoperative outcomes, which are elaborated in detail within the context of this mini-review. The review method involved analyzing relevant literature from databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on studies related to preoperative planning, intraoperative techniques, and postoperative management within hernia surgery. Only recent, peer-reviewed publications in English that directly relate to the topic were included, highlighting the latest advancements in the field to depict potential benefits and current limitations of AI technologies in hernia surgery, advocating for further research and application in this evolving field.