What if an AI could act as a surgeon’s second pair of eyes—while the operation was still happening?
That is now a reality after doctors at University College London Hospital used live AI assistance to remove a brain tumour.
Rhys Hibbert, a 48-year-old father of two, faced worsening vision.
An 11mm benign tumour near his pituitary gland began pressing against his optic nerves.
Without surgery, he could have lost his sight.
During the procedure, surgeons inserted a tiny camera through his nose to reach the tumour.
The challenge? Critical blood vessels and nerves were hidden behind bone and tissue, making every move a potential risk.
AI As A Second Pair
The AI analysed the live surgical video, tracked instruments and highlighted where vital structures were likely located.
Prof Hani Marcus described it as an “expert second pair of eyes”—trained using hundreds of previous operations.
Importantly, the surgeons remained in control. The system offered guidance; they made the decisions.
For Hibbert, the results were dramatic. He says his vision has improved, his energy has returned.
The symptoms that had disrupted his life have disappeared. “It’s given me my life back,” he said.
Could this be the beginning of a future where surgeons never operate alone but always have an AI expert looking over their shoulder?
