World's First Patient Undergoes Brain Surgery with Live Artificial Intelligence

London-based Rhys Hibbert, a customer services manager, underwent the pioneering surgery at University College London Hospital, marking a significant milestone in the use of artificial intelligence in medical procedures.

The operation involved inserting an endoscope to locate and remove the tumour, which was growing on the pituitary gland - a small but vital organ that regulates hormones and sits close to critical blood vessels and nerves. For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Life-Changing Surgery

Until 18 months ago, Hibbert was fit and healthy, enjoying regular walks. However, he fell unconscious while walking and started fitting in the road, leading to a brain scan revealing the non-cancerous tumour.

The AI tool, which is similar to facial recognition technology but recognises important anatomical structures, helped surgeons identify the safest place to extract the tumour and avoid crucial blood vessels and nerves.

The bespoke AI system was trained on hundreds of videos of pituitary tumour removals, allowing it to capture data and begin to 'recognise' the most important structures.

Breakthrough Technology

"AI needs proper safeguards and we will always ensure that safety is taken seriously.

"But we will also ensure we benefit from the opportunities it brings," he added.

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Rhys Hibbert's tumour could have led to blindness The world's first patient to have brain surgery with live artificial intelligence assistance has successfully had his tumour removed.

Rhys Hibbert, a father-of-two from Bedfordshire, could have lost his sight without the operation, stated surgeons at University College London Medical facility.

The AI tool analysed a video feed of the operation as it happened and advised surgeons on how to avoid crucial but hidden vessels and nerves in the brain. It allowed them to safely remove as much of the tumour as possible.

Until 18 months ago, 48-year-old Hibbert, a customer services manager, was fit and healthy, going on a two-mile walk every lunchtime.

It was on one of these walks that he fell unconscious and started fitting in the road.

A brain scan revealed he had an 11mm (0.433in) non-cancerous tumour growing on the pituitary gland - a marble-sized organ at the base of the skull.

The gland secretes vital hormones that help with processes like growth, metabolism and regulating blood pressure and temperature.