Robotics and Artificial Intelligence: Revolutionizing Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery

Minimally invasive bariatric surgery (MIS) represents a significant advancement in the management of obesity, providing numerous benefits over traditional surgical methods, such as reduced recovery times, fewer complications, and improved overall outcomes for patients. The integration of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into MIS signifies a new chapter in bariatric care, propelling the field forward with the promise of heightened precision, safety, and a personalized approach. Robotic systems are enhancing surgeon dexterity and control, while AI, including machine and deep learning algorithms, is revolutionizing intraoperative decision-making processes, image analysis, and patient outcome predictions.

This Research Topic aims to shed light on the latest advancements and innovations at the intersection of robotics, AI, and minimally invasive bariatric surgery. The goal is to explore the possible questions: how can robotic platforms improve surgical outcomes, what impact does AI have on preoperative planning and risk assessment, and how are real-time AI tools enhancing surgical decision-making? This research endeavor will also delve into the potential benefits of AI-driven telemedicine, remote surgery, complication prediction, and tailored postoperative care, revealing the potential that these technologies have in transforming the field of bariatric surgery.

To gather further insights into this emerging field, we welcome studies from scientists, clinicians, and engineers focusing on the complexities of robotics and AI in minimally invasive bariatric surgery. We invite contributions on the following themes:

o Robotic surgery platforms: Innovations, outcomes, and ergonomic advantages in bariatric MIS;
o AI-based preoperative planning: Predictive analytics, automated risk assessment, and image segmentation;
o Intraoperative AI: Decision-support tools, real-time navigation, and complication prevention;
o Telemedicine and remote surgery: Robotic and AI-driven advancements in virtual surgical guidance;
o Postoperative care: AI for monitoring, complication prediction, and tailored patient follow-up;
o Ethical, legal, and cost implications: Adoption barriers, data privacy, and democratizing technology access.

We encourage the submission of original research, reviews, clinical studies, and technical notes, specifically examining how AI and automation can reduce manual labor, improve surgical efficiency, and globally empower healthcare providers.