Study claims brain surgeons perform better if trained by Artificial Intelligence

By Mark Waghorn via SWNS

Trainee neurosurgeons do better after being taught by artificial intelligence rather than humans, new research revealed.

The computer 'brain' dramatically improved techniques during the simulated removal of a brain tumour, according to a new study.

Remote learning has become increasingly important during the pandemic.

In the recent study, medical students were assigned at random to the Virtual Operative Assistant (VOA) that was named one of TIME magazine's best inventions of 2020.

It can role-play life-like scenarios and be used alongside a virtual reality headset, a PC or tablet.

The programme used - called Virti - helps develop skills that used to be gained by using actors to play the role of patients, but now medics said it is no longer safe to have 30 people in the teaching room.

It was also used at the peak of the pandemic to train staff how to safely use PPE, navigate a new intensive care ward and talk with patients and their families.

During tests on the VOA, it was discovered that medical students picked up skills 2.6 times faster and achieved 36 per cent better results after the instruction and feedback.

This was compared to peers given guidance remotely. Expert instructors watched a live feed and provided feedback based on performance.

Surprisingly, they also did not experience any greater stress or negative emotion, scientists said. A third group received no help and acted as a control.

Dr. Rolando Del Maestro, a senior author of the study at Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, said: "Artificially intelligent tutors like the VOA may become a valuable tool in the training of the next generation of neurosurgeons.

"The VOA significantly improved expertise while fostering an excellent learning environment."

It uses a machine-learning algorithm to teach safe and efficient techniques and provide personalized feedback.

The 70 participants were assessed by deep learning tool ICEMS (Intelligent Continuous Expertise Monitoring System) and an expert panel.

Surgical skill plays an important role in patient outcomes both during and after brain surgery.

Dr. Del Maestro added: "Ongoing studies are assessing how in-person instructors and AI-powered intelligent tutors can most effectively be used together to improve the mastery of neurosurgical skills."

The pandemic has presented both challenges and opportunities for medical training, experts said.

VOA may be an effective way to increase neurosurgeon performance, improving patient safety while reducing the burden on human instructors, the study found.

Ali Fazlollahi, first study author and a graduate student, added: "Intelligent tutoring systems can use a variety of simulation platforms to provide almost unlimited chances for repetitive practice without the constraints imposed by the availability of supervision.

"With continued research, increased development, and dissemination of intelligent tutoring systems, we can be better prepared for ever-evolving future challenges."

The Canadian team have a US patent for the device described in JAMA Network Open.

In the UK, a 'virtual patient' has helped trainee medics learn their skills remotely.

Named one of TIME magazine's best inventions of 2020, it can role-play life-like scenarios and be accessed via a VR headset, PC or tablet.

Creator Drx Alex Young, an NHS orthopaedic and trauma surgeon, said it was no longer safe or practicable to have 30 medics in a room.

The program, called Virti, develops "soft skills" - something traditionally achieved with the help of actors playing the role of patients.

It was also used at the peak of the pandemic to train staff in how to safely use PPE, navigate an unfamiliar intensive care ward and engage with patients and their families.