Knowledge, interest and perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in Neurosurgery. A global survey

Brain and Spine, vol. 5, pp. 104156

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare are growing exponentially. The field of neurosurgery is particularly suited to implement AI solutions given its technology-driven nature. It is of paramount importance to understand the basics of AI to make informed decision on how to shape current and future applications. Research question: What is the level of confidence, knowledge and the attitude of the global neurosurgical community towards AI basic concepts and applications? Material and methods: A 24-item survey was designed and distributed. The survey results reported on level of knowledge, confidence and interest in AI, perspectives and attitude towards the application of AI technologies in neurosurgery. The potential influence of demographics and work-related environment features on AI knowledge was investigated. Results: We received a total of 250 responses from 61 countries. The correct definition of 'Machine Learning', 'Deep Learning' and main Big Data features were identified by respectively 42%, 23% and 23% of the respondents. The survey unveiled a strong interest and a positive attitude towards the introduction of AI in the neurosurgical practice. The main concerns included trustworthiness and liability, the main barriers to implementation were considered lack of funding, infrastructure, knowledge and multidisciplinary collaboration. Discussion and conclusion: There is a low familiarity with basic AI concepts in the neurosurgical community. Nevertheless, there is a strong interest and a positive attitude towards AI implementation. The systematization of training and the production of educational resources will be key in guaranteeing a successful implementation of AI in the evolving history of neurosurgery.

Authors 14

1. Alessandro Boaro

   University of Verona

   Affiliation as printed

   Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

2. Elisabetta Mezzalira

   University of Padua

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Woman's and Child's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy

3. Francesca Siddi

   University of Verona

   Affiliation as printed

   Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

4. C. Bagattini

   University of Verona

   Affiliation as printed

   Perception and Awareness (PandA) Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

   Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

5. N. Gabrovsky
   Affiliation as printed

   Clinic of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Pirogov, Sofia, Bulgaria

6. Nicolò Marchesini

   University of Verona

   Affiliation as printed

   Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

7. M. Broekman Aachen Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center

   Leiden University Medical Center · Medisch Centrum Haaglanden · Stichting Haaglanden Medisch Centrum

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, the Netherlands

   Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands

8. F. Sala

   University of Verona

   Affiliation as printed

   Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy

9. N. Gabrovsky
   Affiliation as printed

   Clinic of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Pirogov, Sofia, Bulgaria

10. Marcel Ivanov
11. Florian Ringel
12. Enrico Tessitore
13. Nicolàs Samprón
14. Victor E. Staartjes