London surgeons use AI during first reported successful brain-tumour operation

Neurosurgeons in London have carried out what health officials describe as the world’s first successful AI-assisted operation to remove a brain tumour, using software that highlighted delicate anatomy during the procedure. The operation took place in May at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, part of University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Details were released after the patient, Rhys Hibbert, had recovered. Hibbert, 48, had an 11mm tumour on his pituitary gland. The gland is located close to blood vessels and nerves involved in vision, making the operation particularly sensitive. Health officials said that a mistake of about a millimetre could potentially result in blindness, stroke or death. During the surgery, the medical team retained full control while the AI system examined live footage from the camera used in the procedure. The technology colour-coded important structures, helping the surgeons identify nerves, blood vessels, instruments and tissue interactions that needed careful attention. The hospital had previously used the system for research. This was its first reported use on a patient during surgery. Dr Sophia Bano, an associate professor in robotics and AI at University College London and the system’s technical lead, said it had been trained using hundreds of surgical videos and was designed to recognise critical anatomy in real time. Hibbert’s condition had initially been managed without an operation after his diagnosis in 2024. His symptoms later worsened, including serious hormone imbalance and problems with his vision. Health officials said he risked losing his sight without surgery. After the procedure, Hibbert said he could see clearly when he regained consciousness. He was walking independently without glasses or walking aids within a week and has since returned to his job as a customer service manager. He described his vision as providing a “360-degree panoramic view” of his surroundings. The operation was funded through a clinical trial by the National Institute for Health and Care Research. Its scientific director for innovation, Professor Mike Lewis, said the procedure demonstrated the potential for advanced AI to support surgeons and improve patient care. The report does not establish that the technology can replace surgical judgment; in this operation, the surgeons remained responsible for the procedure.