World’s First Patient To Undergo Live AI-assisted Brain Surgery Has Tumour Removed

World’s first patient to undergo live AI-assisted brain surgery has tumour removed A 48-year-old man has become the world’s first patient to undergo brain surgery in which artificial intelligence provided live assistance during the operation, with doctors successfully removing his tumour. Rhys Hibbert, from Bedfordshire in England, underwent the pioneering procedure at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London in May 2026. The AI system analysed live camera footage from the operation and helped surgeons identify critical structures, including nerves and blood vessels, around the tumour. The technology highlighted areas to avoid using colour coding, helping the surgical team navigate the highly delicate region at the base of the brain while removing the tumour. Hibbert had an 11mm tumour on his pituitary gland, which had caused worsening vision problems and hormone-related symptoms. Doctors warned that without surgery, his condition could eventually have resulted in blindness. The pituitary gland, blood vessels and nerves responsible for vision are located close together, meaning even a very small surgical error can potentially cause blindness, stroke or death. The AI system had been trained using hundreds of surgical videos and was designed to recognise anatomy, surgical instruments and tissue interactions in real time. However, the technology did not perform the operation itself. The surgeons remained fully in control, with the AI serving as an additional visual aid during the procedure. Following the operation, Hibbert recovered quickly. He was able to walk independently without glasses or walking aids within a week and has since returned to work. The pioneering procedure was carried out as part of a clinical trial funded by the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Research NIHR, with the technology being used on a patient for the first time after previously being tested as a research tool. Researchers say the breakthrough could demonstrate how AI can assist surgeons with highly complex procedures by providing real-time information that may help improve precision and patient safety. Hibbert said the operation had saved his sight and described being selected as the first patient in the research as a humbling experience. The development marks a significant step in the use of artificial intelligence in surgery, although further clinical research will be needed to establish how widely the technology can safely be used.