The Role of Advanced Technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Surgical Training: A Consensus Report

This white paper presents the consensus opinions of the Artificial Intelligence Surgery (AIS) Editorial Board and its Task Force on Surgical Training regarding the integration and role of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in surgical education. Derived from a structured modified Delphi process involving comprehensive video conference discussions and a 25-item questionnaire, the paper explores five critical topics: 1) Telemedicine, Telementoring, Telepresence, and Remote Surgery (Telesurgery); 2) The Role of Simulation in Surgical Education; 3) Technology's Role in Training Surgeons in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs); 4) Technology's Role in Training Disabled Surgeons; and 5) Ethical Aspects of AI-Based Surgical Training. The consensus process, conducted with 23 international experts, achieved ≥80% agreement on 13 of 25 statements. These consensus principles affirm the essential role of advanced technologies - including AI, simulation, and telementoring - in addressing the global surgical burden and guiding future developments for a more inclusive surgical workforce.