How Should Surgeons Consider Emerging Innovations in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics?

Ava G Chappell, Chad M Teven

AMA J Ethics . 2023 Aug 1;25(8):E589-597. doi: 10.1001/amajethics.2023.589.

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted robotic surgery seems to offer promise for improving patients' outcomes and innovating surgical care. This commentary on a hypothetical case considers ethical questions that AI-facilitated surgical robotics pose for patient safety, patient autonomy, confidentiality and privacy, informed consent, and surgical training. This commentary also offers strategies for mitigating risk in surgical innovation.