Artificial intelligence in surgical medicine: a brief review

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the medical field, particularly in surgical operations, has evolved from science fiction to a crucial tool. With continuous advancements in computational power and algorithmic technology, AI is reshaping the surgical medicine landscape. From preoperative diagnosis and planning to intraoperative real-time navigation and assistance and postoperative rehabilitation and follow-up management, AI technology has significantly enhanced the precision and safety of surgical procedures. This paper systematically reviews the development and current applications of AI in surgery, focusing on specific case studies of AI in surgical procedures, diagnostic assistance, intraoperative navigation, and postoperative management, highlighting its significant contributions to improving surgical precision and safety. Despite the obvious advantages of AI in improving surgical success, reducing postoperative complications, and accelerating patient recovery, its use in surgery still faces numerous challenges, including its cost-effectiveness, dependency, data privacy and security, clinical integration, and physician training. This review summarizes the current applications of AI in surgical medicine, highlights its benefits and limitations, and discusses the challenges and future directions of integrating AI into surgical practice.