Surgeons, All Other

Right now, surgeons still do most of their work, but they often use AI tools for support. For example, machine-learning models can scan patient data or images and flag risks, sometimes even predicting complications more accurately than doctors ^[1]. Robotic tools (like the Da Vinci system) let surgeons operate with tiny instruments.

In one review, “AI-assisted” robotic surgery cut complication rates in half (from 12.2% to 6.1%) in spine cases ^[1]. However, a human surgeon was still at the controls. Tasks like checking instruments, sterilizing the operating room, and writing up patient notes remain largely manual.

AI hasn’t replaced these chores — they rely on hospital protocols and doctor oversight. Overall, AI today is more of an assistant: it helps with planning and guidance but doesn’t make the final call. Experts say these tools are meant “to augment the knowledge… of surgeons by anchoring decision making in objectivity” ^[1], not to take over completely.

Adopting AI in surgery is happening slowly. Surgical robots and AI systems are very expensive, so big hospitals (often in wealthy countries) tend to use them more ^[1]. In fact, the United States has over half of the world’s surgical robots ^[1].

Hospitals must balance the high cost of equipment against surgeons’ salaries (surgeons earn about \$239K/year on average ^[2]). Also, doctors and patients need to trust that AI is safe. Researchers note that AI systems often need more data and testing, and there are legal/ethical questions to solve ^[1].

If the tech works well, it can save time or improve outcomes, which is a big benefit. But until AI tools prove themselves in many trials, surgeons will stay in charge. In summary, AI is being used more for tips and guidance in surgery, while human surgeons keep doing the hard parts – a balance that most experts expect to continue ^{[1] [1]}.