AIIMS & IIT-D Collaborate to Develop AI-Based Neurosurgery Training Simulators

The advanced simulators not only relieve the evaluation burden on neurosurgeons but also establish standardised training and assessment protocols within the field.

The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in partnership with IIT Delhi, has created AI-driven simulators for training neurosurgeons in minimally invasive microscopic and endoscopic surgical techniques.

This initiative aims to transform the assessment of neurosurgical skills, particularly those intricate actions crucial in brain surgery. The advanced simulators not only relieve the evaluation burden on neurosurgeons but also establish standardised training and assessment protocols within the field.

In a departure from the traditional apprenticeship model, where learning occurs through observation and assistance in the operating room, the collaboration utilised intelligent smart surgical simulators.

Dr Ashish Suri, the principal investigator at AIIMS Delhi, highlighted the challenges of the apprenticeship model and emphasised the need for effective alternatives.

He said, "3D printing and artificial intelligence play crucial roles in developing neurosurgical simulators and evaluating surgical skills in the field of brain surgery.”

3D printing allows the creation of highly detailed and customised brain models, enabling surgeons to practise procedures on realistic anatomical structures. AI deep learning and ML algorithms analyse a surgeon’s performance in terms of precision, speed, and decision-making during simulations, offering real-time feedback.

Commenting on the significance of collaboration in automating skills evaluation, Prof Prem Kumar Kalra, head, computer science department, IIT-D, said, "The collaboration between IIT Delhi and AIIMS through this project has yielded significant results in the automation of skills evaluation in microscopic and endoscopic neurosurgery training using computer vision and AI/ML."

During the 16th IITD Open House program, the partnership between AIIMS New Delhi and IIT Delhi was formed. The initiative, supported by the Center of Excellence projects funded by DBT and ICMR, introduced an "Automatic Evaluation of Microscopic and Endoscopic Skills."

The key highlight of the project was the introduction of a Deep Learning system tailored for training and evaluating neurosurgeons on intricate techniques, including micro-suturing, micro-drilling, and essential endoscopic skills crucial for impeccable hand-eye coordination.

Furthermore, AIIMS New Delhi has implemented a centralised system for sample collection and electronic report distribution, streamlining diagnostic services for improved efficiency and patient convenience.

Earlier, in August 23, AIIMS New Delhi collaborated with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University to launch the Patient Grievance Redressal System, for addressing patient feedback and concerns to enhance overall patient care.