AIS Spotlight In Conversation with Prof. Peter Passias: The Transformative Role of AI in Spine Surgery

Artificial Intelligence Surgery (AIS) proudly announces the launch of the second edition of the Special Issue: "Elevating Spine Surgery with AI: Current Landscape and Future Frontiers." To explore how AI is reshaping spine surgery, we had the privilege of interviewing Prof. Peter Passias, Guest Editor of this Special Issue, an esteemed AIS Editorial Board member, and a globally recognized leader in spinal surgery.

▸ About Prof. Peter Passias

Prof. Peter Passias, MD, has recently joined the Duke Spine Division as an associate chief, co-chair, medical director of the spine research program, and co-chair of the spine protocol review committee. Prof. Passias earned his MD at the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, completed his residency at Tufts University, and pursued fellowships at the Hospital for Special Surgery and the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions.

Prof. Passias is a world leader in the surgical treatment of spinal disorders. His clinical practice focuses on the treatment of both degenerative conditions of the spine, with an emphasis on complex spinal deformities including thoracolumbar revision procedures and scoliosis. He has a particular interest in the management of complex cervical spine disorders, and is widely recognized as a pioneer in this field. Among his peers, he was the first to perform several minimally invasive procedures aimed at expediting recovery and achieving the very best clinical outcomes. Prof. Passias has authored more than 400 peer-reviewed manuscripts and presented 1,000+ abstracts at scientific meetings.

▸ Key Insights from the Interview

• AI-Driven Surgical Planning:
  AI-powered predictive analytics enable personalized surgical strategies, optimizing outcomes and enhancing postoperative recovery.
• Robotics and AI-Enhanced Precision:
  The integration of AI with robotic-assisted techniques improves surgical accuracy, minimizes complications, and increases procedural success rates.
• AI in Surgical Education and Training:
  AI-driven simulation platforms accelerate the learning curve for young spine surgeons, allowing them to practice complex procedures in a risk-free virtual environment.

▸ Watch the Full Interview with Prof. Peter Passias

▸ Overview of interview questions:

Q1: Could you please introduce yourself to us and the audience and share with us what initially inspired your interest in tackling complex spinal disorders, spine surgery and spine care, and what aspects of your career and research bring you the most joy and fulfillment?

Q2: With your background in bio-mechanical engineering research and clinical research, how do you see the field of spine surgery evolving? What role do you see emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics playing in shaping the future of spine surgery?

Q3: You had more than 200 presentations at scientific conferences, and served as faculty on numerous spinal surgery courses worldwide. How have these global experiences shaped your approach to spine surgery, and what lessons have you integrated into your practice and research? Can you give us examples of this?

Q4: Given your deep involvement in educating and mentoring the next generation of spine surgeons, what do you see as the pros and cons of combining artificial intelligence and robotics with surgical training for surgical education?

Q5: With the advancements in AI and predictive analytics, we are moving toward more personalized treatment strategies for spinal disorders. How do you think AI can help tailor surgical planning and postoperative recovery for individual patients?

Q6: As a key Editorial Board member of Artificial Intelligence Surgery (AIS), you have played a vital role in advancing discussions on AI in spinal surgery. What are your aspirations and vision for this topic of your Special Issue, and what kind of contributions are you hoping to attract from researchers and surgeons worldwide?

▸ Shaping the Future of AI in Spine Surgery

Prof. Passias envisions AI bridging biomechanics, robotics, and clinical practice, enabling real-time intraoperative decision-making and expanding the boundaries of spine surgery. As a leading editorial board member of AIS, he actively fosters global discussions on AI's transformative role in the field.

Join us in advancing AI-driven innovations in spine surgery! Stay tuned for more insights and advancements in AIS!

Editor: Abby Zhang
Language Editor: Catherine Yang
Production Editor: Ting Xu
Respectfully Submitted by the Editorial Office of Artificial Intelligence Surgery