World’s First Brain Surgery with AI Assistance, Eyesight Saved

In a first in medical history, doctors at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London, successfully performed brain surgery on a living patient using artificial intelligence. In May, Mr. Rhys Hibbert (48) underwent surgery to remove an 11-millimeter non-cancerous pituitary tumor that was threatening his vision. Mr. Hibbert’s peripheral vision had already started to degrade due to the tumor, which was found in 2024 after seizures and an abrupt loss of consciousness. The tumor also caused extreme exhaustion, drowsiness, and trouble navigating.

Surgeons used a tiny camera inserted via the patient’s nose to reach the tumor near the base of the skull. Throughout the process, the AI system acted as a skilled second set of eyes, precisely identifying vital blood vessels and brain nerves by analyzing real-time video inputs. Although complete control of the procedure remained firmly in human hands, this feature enabled the medical team to carefully navigate around high-risk areas. Researchers used surgical video data from hundreds of previous pituitary tumor procedures to effectively train this advanced AI system.

Mr. Hibbert has recovered remarkably after the ground-breaking treatment, reporting notable improvements in his vision as well as the total elimination of his prior problems, including weariness. According to medical specialists, this remarkable achievement opens the door for greater usage of AI in intricate neurosurgeries. However, experts stress that before broader medical acceptance, further research and clinical studies are necessary to fully evaluate the technology’s long-term safety and effectiveness.

Source: BBC, UCLH