Risks of Artifical Intelligence in Surgery

As technology advances, the usage of robots and artificial intelligence in surgery has risen exponentially. These robotic surgeries allow for a more precise and accurate procedure, minimizing human error, reducing recovery times, and improving patient outcomes. Though artificial intelligence and robots can provide a more precise monitoring during surgeries, the disadvantages and risks they provide are rather daunting and may require a deeper reflection on how they can be better utilized. 

Engineers and robotic technicians have worked diligently to perfect robotic instruments, but there is a risk of mechanical failures, including robotic arm malfunctions and electrical issues, that could lead to irreversible patient injuries like accidental burns and nerve damage. Delays or slow responses from surgical robots can unnecessarily prolong procedures. Human error in operating these robotic instruments may cause unimaginable harm to patients. As medical doctors are using more intelligent robotic systems, there exists a concern of overreliance on these systems. As AI algorithms increase in sophistication, there may be a decrease in skilled human decision-making and medical knowledge. This puts patients’ lives in jeopardy because if AI algorithms crash or experience technological difficulties, medical doctors might not have the skills to make their own intellectual judgments. 

The integration of artificial intelligence in surgery may also pose ethical questions regarding transparency and accountability in AI algorithms and robotic instruments used for surgical decision-making and assistance in surgery. Patient consent and privacy will become a big issue, as AI algorithms may store patient data and use it to update their systems. Additional concerns involve the potential displacement of jobs in the healthcare industry. The assistance of AI with tasks that are traditionally performed by healthcare workers may slowly progress to complete automation, reducing the need for humans. This will cause a rippling effect in reducing job opportunities and create jobs geared towards assisting AI systems in completing tasks. These issues will continue to exist as AI systems become more sophisticated and competent in completing their tasks. Medical professionals and institutions should explore more effective ways to integrate artificial intelligence into healthcare.

Written by Anna Zheng at Incisionary

References

Cleveland Clinic. (2024, April 30). Robotic surgery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22178-robotic-surgery

Cordero, D. (2023). The downsides of artificial intelligence in healthcare. The Korean Journal of Pain, 37(1), 87–88. https://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.23312

Sarofim, M. (2024). Devil’s advocate: exploring the potential negative impacts of artificial intelligence on the field of surgery. Journal of Medical Artificial Intelligence, 7, 7–7. https://doi.org/10.21037/jmai-23-158