AI used in real time during world-first brain tumour surgery

A 48-year-old man, Rhys Hibbert, became the first patient in the world to undergo brain tumour surgery assisted by real-time artificial intelligence at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, where surgeons removed a growth on his pituitary gland. The AI technology, developed by the UCL Hawkes Institute, colour-codes complex brain anatomy on a live feed to guide surgeons away from critical nerves and blood vessels, and the operation was a success, saving Mr Hibbert's sight and allowing him to return to work. Consultant neurosurgeon Professor Hani Marcus praised the UK-developed technology for its potential to lower risks during delicate neurosurgical procedures.