Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Surgery: Current Applications and Future Directions

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the University of Naples Federico II have outlined the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) in pediatric robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), highlighting both the existing limitations and the promising potential of emerging AI-like technologies. AI is increasingly integrated into surgical practice, offering enhanced decision-making, precision, and workflow efficiency. However, the direct application of artificial intelligence remains limited in pediatric RAS, with AI-like features such as machine vision and augmented reality serving mainly as supportive tools. Despite these limitations, the researchers note that ongoing research and emerging AI-like technologies hold promising potential for future applications in pediatric robotic surgery.

Key Takeaways:

  • The integration of AI into pediatric surgery is a rapidly advancing field, with AI-like features such as machine vision and augmented reality serving as supportive tools in robotic-assisted surgery.
  • Despite the limited direct application of artificial intelligence in pediatric RAS, emerging AI-like technologies and ongoing research hold promising potential for future applications.
  • A total of 746 papers were collected from a literature-based search of PubMed and Scopus, with 15 full-text articles meeting the inclusion criteria for the review.
  • The studies included in the review were selected based on English language, pediatric patients under 18 years old, and AI application in pediatric RAS.
  • The researchers emphasized the need for further research and development to fully realize the potential of AI in pediatric RAS.
  • The use of AI in pediatric RAS offers potential benefits including enhanced decision-making, precision, and workflow efficiency.
  • The direct application of artificial intelligence remains limited in pediatric RAS, but AI-like features such as machine vision and augmented reality are being explored.

Statistics:

  • A total of 746 papers were collected from a literature-based search of PubMed and Scopus.
  • 15 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria for the review.
  • 91.8% of the studies covered in the review did not address pediatric surgery, involved robotic-assisted procedures, or included applications of AI.
  • The researchers conducted a literature-based search of PubMed and Scopus, identifying 746 papers published until July 2025.

Sources:

  • Ai In Robotic-assisted Pediatric Surgery: Current Applications and Future Directions. European Journal of Pediatric Surgery, 2025.
  • University of Naples Federico II, Dept. of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Naples, Italy.
  • European Journal of Pediatric Surgery: Georg Thieme Verlag Kg, Rudigerstr 14, D-70469 Stuttgart, Germany. (Thieme - www.thieme.com)