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The field of surgery is growing and changing at an unprecedented pace. Every few years, surgeons are presented with new methods and technologies to improve patient outcomes and standardize surgical procedure. With this rapid growth in the field, it’s no wonder that many people are curious about how artificial intelligence will impact the future of surgery. With AI continuing to grow in popularity, it is only natural that this technology would have an impact on surgical procedures. While many may believe that AI will take over the role of surgeons entirely – WRONG! Instead, AI will be used as a tool to assist surgeons during operations so they can focus on more difficult tasks. From computer-assisted virtual reality simulations to smart surgical instruments, here is how artificial intelligence will change the future of surgery:
Computer-Assisted VR Surgery
Virtual reality technology is already being used to plan surgeries. When patients are going through a complicated surgical procedure, it can be very helpful to walk through the procedure with them in order to understand their concerns and address their questions. VR technology allows surgeons to use computer-generated imagery to create a virtual environment for patients to walk through. This has many benefits, including providing a safe environment for patients who may be nervous about the procedure. It also allows surgeons to test out different procedures and make changes in the instrumentation without making an incision. Computer-assisted VR surgery may also be used to train medical students and novices on surgical skills. VR technology has become more advanced in recent years, and many systems are now capable of providing haptic feedback. This allows students to get a realistic sensation of feeling tissue and learning the proper way to move the tools.
AI-Assisted Robotics
One of the most exciting uses of AI in surgery is the use of robotics. Robotic surgery is when a surgeon operates on a patient remotely with the assistance of surgical robots. This differs from conventional surgery as the surgeon views images on a computer screen rather than through the use of an incision. Robotic surgery has traditionally been used for operations that are minimally invasive, such as knee and gynecological surgeries. Now, advanced AI technology is being integrated into surgical robotics to enhance precision and assist the surgeon. The AI system can analyse images of a patient’s MRI and CT scans, then integrate this information with data from previous similar cases. This allows the AI system to spot potential problems with the patient’s anatomy and recommend a change in surgical approach. The surgeon can then view the patient’s MRI or CT scan through the computer screen while operating on the patient, allowing them to make adjustments as needed.
Robotic Organs and Organ Transplants
Artificial intelligence could be a key to solving the global organ shortage. There are currently over 100,000 people in the United States alone who are waiting for an organ transplant. Unfortunately, there are not enough organs available to meet this demand. Robotics and AI have been used to assist in the production of artificial organs and tissues. Scientists have been able to produce artificial livers and kidneys in laboratories, which could then be used as transplants. Artificial organ production is not as easy as it sounds. Scientists must manipulate cells and tissues that are incredibly complex, to create the specific anatomy of each organ. Organ production has been made easier with the use of AI. Scientists have been able to use artificial intelligence to model and simulate complex cellular processes. This allows scientists to better understand cellular anatomy and how various genetic traits and characteristics impact the growth of certain cells. Using this technology, scientists can better design the ideal conditions for cells to grow and produce artificial organs.
Smart Prosthetics and Limb Rebuilds
Prosthetics have been used to help patients who have suffered a physical injury or an amputation regain mobility and independence. However, traditional prosthetic limbs have been difficult to fit and repair, as they are designed to fit one patient’s anatomy specifically. Robotics and AI have been used to create prosthetic limbs that are much more flexible and adaptive. For example, researchers have created a prosthetic limb that can be controlled by movement of a patient’s muscles. Researchers have also experimented with artificial intelligence to create prosthetic limbs that can learn the user’s movements and actions. This type of adaptive prosthetic limb can be programmed to remember certain movements or gestures and act accordingly. These types of advanced prosthetic limbs will allow patients to regain independence and resume daily activities that they may have previously been unable to do.
Final Words
Artificial intelligence is a fascinating technology that will continue to shape the future of health care. From computer-assisted surgery to robotic organ production, AI will be used in many ways to make health care safer, more efficient, and more accessible for people worldwide. There is no doubt that AI will influence surgical procedures, but it will not completely replace surgeons. Instead, this technology will be used to enhance the skills and abilities of surgeons in a variety of ways – and that’s a good thing! If anything, this will allow more people to pursue a career in surgery as there will be less difficulty in surgery and less pressure to perform.