University College London surgeons use AI to remove brain tumor

Neurosurgeons at University College London Hospital have successfully performed the world’s first brain tumor removal assisted by real-time artificial intelligence. The patient, 48-year-old Rhys Hibbert, underwent surgery to remove an 11-millimeter benign tumor located on his pituitary gland.

The tumor was situated dangerously close to the carotid arteries and optic nerves, causing Hibbert to experience dizziness, fatigue, and a narrowing of his peripheral vision. During the procedure, an endoscope was used to navigate through the nasal passage to the base of the skull. The AI system analyzed live surgical footage to identify hidden anatomical structures and warn the surgical team about critical, invisible blood vessels and nerves.

The technology functioned as an analytical support tool rather than an autonomous decision-maker, allowing surgeons to navigate high-risk areas with greater precision. This assistance enabled the team to safely remove a larger portion of the tumor than might have been possible otherwise, mitigating the risk of permanent vision loss.