The role of artificial intelligence and 3D printing in minimally invasive liver surgery

During the past decade, technological advancements have transformed liver surgery. New tools are available to assist the surgeon during complex operations, such as a hepatectomy for liver cancer. Augmented reality (AR) is an innovative technology that utilizes computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to create three-dimensional (3D) images of the area or the organ of interest. This is especially useful for minimally invasive liver resection (MILR), where the field of view and maneuverability during the operation is limited. A 3D image of vascular structures, hilar segments, and the tumor location is projected into the operating field, thus contributing to a more precise resection. Combining AR with the groundbreaking capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) could further improve the surgical outcomes of MILR. Specialized AI programs are designed to analyze the surgical field, provide information and facilitate the operation plan, simplify intraoperative decision making and reduce human error. 3D printing of hepatocellular cancer liver models is another useful technology that allows for procedure simulation, proper preoperative planning, and effective intraoperative navigation. Even though the benefits could be outstanding, the large cost of those technologies is a major limiting factor. Future research should focus on making AI and 3D imaging tools more widely affordable to the healthcare industry as data show that they could improve diagnostic efficiency, increase surgical precision, minimize human error and optimize patient care.