A narrative review on artificial intelligence in neurosurgery: ethical challenges and implementation considerations

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Artificial Intelligence
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming neurosurgery, improving diagnostics, surgical planning, and patient management.
• The integration of AI in neurosurgery presents significant ethical challenges, including bias, data privacy, and accountability.
• Addressing these ethical concerns is crucial for maximizing AI's benefits in patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications of AI in neurosurgery.
• To identify and analyze the ethical challenges associated with AI in neurosurgery.
• To propose strategies for the responsible integration of AI in neurosurgical practice.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of studies was conducted.
• Databases searched included PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar.
• Keywords included "artificial intelligence," "neurosurgery," "ethics," and "bias."

Main Results:

• AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and management of neurological conditions.
• Risks include exacerbating healthcare disparities and compromising patient data security.
• Strategies involve ethical frameworks, diverse datasets, and surgeon-AI collaboration for equitable outcomes.

Conclusions:

• AI offers significant promise for neurosurgical advancements.
• Responsible AI integration necessitates robust ethical and regulatory frameworks.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world validation are essential for addressing evolving challenges.