STORY
A British man has become the first patient to undergo brain tumour removal using live artificial intelligence to guide surgeons during the operation. Rhys Hibbert, 48, was treated at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, part of University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The technology analysed live images from inside Mr Hibbert’s brain and used colour coding to identify small but important anatomical structures. Surgeons could then distinguish more clearly between the tumour and areas associated with functions such as eyesight, reducing the risk of accidental damage while removing the growth.
The operation took place in May and Mr Hibbert has since returned to work. He said the procedure had saved his sight, while the hospital described the operation as the first use of live AI assistance during brain tumour surgery anywhere in the world.