Digital surgery, a concept first defined in 2022, describes the use of advanced technology such as AI and machine learning in surgical procedures. This rapidly evolving field offers great potential in improving surgical processes and patient outcomes as per Robin Selwitz, Director of Technology and Hospital Systems Projects at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Technological innovations in digital health can be leveraged at various stages of surgery – from preoperative planning and post-surgical analysis to AI-driven training for surgeons. One such example is Johnson and Johnson’s MONARCH robotics platform, which has led to a 15% increase in diagnostic yield in bronchoscopy. Similarly, the Surgical Process Institute’s digital system significantly reduces variability and surgery time by offering visualizations of a procedure’s critical steps. Using augmented reality glasses has proven to reduce surgeons’ muscular fatigue and increase surgical instrument placement accuracy by 35%.
Benefits of digital surgery also extend to improved access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas, where remote surgeries can be carried out using robotic platforms. Digital surgery can assist in faster patient recovery times, less pain, and provide surgeons with better dexterity and precision. Machine learning can improve data analytics, helping predict surgery-related outcomes, while AI can help hospitals understand large sets of data for future predictions and trends. However, digital surgery also poses risks regarding cybersecurity due to the connectivity requirement of many surgical tools; legal and ethical concerns are still under the radar.
To advance digital surgery, continued research in ethical impact and comprehensive evaluation of risks and benefits are crucial. Hospital systems can create digital health governance teams to select appropriate technology for their facilities and carefully evaluate all associated risks and benefits. Embracing new technology can be daunting for staff, who might view it as a job threat. Hence, a measured pace in introducing new technology can ease concerns around automation.
Meanwhile, hospitals should ensure robust cybersecurity to minimize cyberattack risks. The importance of updated data infrastructure cannot be underestimated to enable digital surgery and other digital health initiatives. It can also help reduce cost and waste in the hospital system.
Providers need to learn more about AI and digital surgery tools to reassess and help ease concerns better. Although there are clear advantages to digital surgery, there’s still considerable scope for research and understanding. By continuing to experiment with digital surgery tools and advocating further research, hospital systems can become innovation leaders in the field.
Lastly, despite the challenges, it’s an exciting time for digital surgery and healthcare innovation. The healthcare industry is at the brink of a digital revolution that promises notable impacts on surgical procedures and overall patient health outcomes. Embracing digital health will not only help health institutions stay in step with changing times but may also provide them with a much-needed competitive edge.
