Artificial intelligence in general surgery: A national survey on knowledge, utilization, and future expectations

Artificial intelligence is rapidly expanding across medical fields, yet its integration into surgical practice remains limited. Understanding surgeons' perspectives on artificial intelligence is essential for guiding responsible implementation. This national cross-sectional study, conducted among 364 general surgeons in Turkey between May and June 2025, assessed knowledge, utilization, perceived benefits, risks, and expectations regarding artificial intelligence in surgery. Although most participants (73.4%) reported following artificial intelligence-related developments and rated their adaptability to new technologies as high or very high (74.2%), only 30.5% considered their medical artificial intelligence knowledge above average or advanced. Artificial intelligence use was widespread in daily life (76.9%) but less frequent in scientific writing (45.9%) and clinical practice (36.0%). Surgeons perceived the greatest benefits in preoperative planning, documentation, and risk prediction, whereas intraoperative decision support was viewed more cautiously. Younger, academic, and high-knowledge surgeons were generally more engaged and optimistic, whereas experienced and nonacademic surgeons tended to be more cautious. Concerns persisted, with two-thirds anticipating ethical challenges, nearly half fearing increased inequalities, and more than one-third expressing worry about the erosion of surgical decision-making skills. Overall, surgeons demonstrated strong interest and adaptability toward artificial intelligence but limited formal training and clinical integration. They primarily viewed artificial intelligence as a supportive tool rather than a replacement, emphasizing the need for structured education, standardized guidelines, and clear ethical frameworks to ensure responsible and equitable adoption in surgical care.