Vol.:(0123456789) Journal of Robotic Surgery (2025) 19:47 https://doi.org/10.1007/s11701-024-02205-0 REVIEW Revolutionizing surgery: AI and robotics for precision, risk reduction, and innovation Jack Ng Kok Wah 1 Received: 2 December 2024 / Accepted: 20 December 2024 © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2025 Abstract Artificial intelligence and robotics are revolutionizing surgical practices by enhancing precision, efficiency, and patient out- comes. With global healthcare systems increasingly adopting AI-driven technologies, the integration of robotics in surgery addresses critical challenges such as surgical accuracy, minimally invasive techniques, and healthcare accessibility. However, disparities in access and ethical concerns regarding automation persist globally, necessitating a balanced discourse on these advancements. The primary objective of the review is to explore the intersection of AI and robotic technologies in surgi- cal practices, highlighting key innovations, their impact on precision medicine, and future trajectories. The novelty of the review lies in synthesizing findings across diverse surgical specialties, including urology, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, and pediatric surgery, to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI’s transformative role. The systematic review evalu- ates the integration of AI and robotics in surgery, synthesizing studies published in 2024. It follows PRISMA guidelines for study selection, data extraction, and synthesis. The review assesses surgical specialties, AI technologies, and outcomes like accuracy, recovery, and complications, ensuring methodological rigor and transparency. The findings indicate substantial advancements in AI-driven surgical systems, improving decision-making, reducing surgical errors, and facilitating personal- ized treatment strategies. Notable breakthroughs include AI-enhanced imaging, real-time data analysis, and automated robotic instruments, which collectively improve procedural efficiency and patient safety. The discussion emphasizes the critical implications of these innovations, particularly in advancing minimally invasive techniques and expanding surgical capabilities in complex procedures. However, challenges such as cost, ethical considerations, and the need for rigorous training protocols are highlighted as barriers to widespread adoption. The review underscores the implications for policymakers, healthcare institutions, and technology developers to address these barriers and promote equitable access to AI-driven surgical solutions. Limitations include the reliance on recent studies, necessitating long-term evaluations of clinical outcomes. Future research should focus on integrating AI with emerging technologies like augmented reality, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing socio-ethical dimensions to fully realize the potential of AI in surgical advancements. Keywords Artificial intelligence in healthcare · Robotics in surgery · Minimally invasive surgery · Surgical precision and efficiency · AI-driven surgical systems Introduction Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of surgery, driving advancements in precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. AI-driven robotics, integrated with smart technologies, is enhancing surgical practices across various specialties, including urology, plastic surgery, spine surgery, ophthalmology, and pediatric surgery [1–3]. AI’s role in robotic systems has led to significant improvements in sur- gical accuracy, risk minimization, and recovery times, with ongoing innovations in machine learning and digital imag- ing [5, 6]. Robotics, coupled with AI, is also transforming minimally invasive procedures, offering greater precision and reduced complications [4]. Despite the promising poten- tial, challenges remain in terms of implementation, ethical concerns, and cost-effectiveness [8]. * Jack Ng Kok Wah ngkokwah@mmu.edu.my 1 Multimedia University, Cyberjaya, Malaysia