First AI-assisted brain surgery in real time saves patient's sight

Rhys Hibbert, a 48-year-old from Bedfordshire, UK, has become the first patient in the world to undergo brain surgery assisted by real-time artificial intelligence. The operation, performed in May at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London, removed an 11-millimetre tumour from his pituitary gland while preserving his vision, which had been threatened by the growth Source: ABC. The AI system analysed live video from the surgical endoscope, highlighting critical structures such as blood vessels and nerves on a second screen, but did not control instruments or make autonomous decisions; surgeons retained full control throughout Source: ABC, Infobae.

The technology

The AI, developed at University College London and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, was trained on hundreds of previous surgical videos Source: Infobae. It identified and colour-coded anatomical features in real time, helping surgeons avoid a one-millimetre margin of error that could cause blindness, stroke, or death Source: Euronews. Previously used only as a research tool, this marked its first application in a live patient Source: Infobae.

The patient's journey

Hibbert was diagnosed in December 2024 after collapsing during a walk. As the tumour pressed on his optic nerves, his peripheral vision deteriorated, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and hormonal imbalances Source: ABC. He volunteered for the trial, saying, "If patients are not willing to participate in research, how can doctors learn and how can medicine advance?" Source: Euronews. After surgery, his vision improved markedly: "When I came round… I could see everything in the room clearly" Source: Euronews. He has since returned to work Source: Infobae.

Reaction and outlook

UK Health Innovation Minister James Frith called it "AI at its best," while stressing the need for safeguards Source: Euronews. The success suggests potential for AI to support surgeons in complex procedures, though further trials are needed.