Mapping The Landscape Of Artificial Intelligence In Surgical Practice In African Healthcare Systems

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence is transforming surgical practice globally, yet African healthcare systems demonstrate limited adoption. This review examines the use of Al in African surgical practice. Methods: We searched PubMed Central, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, for peer-reviewed papers addressing Al in surgery from 2014 to 2024, focusing on studies relevant to African contexts. Results: Of the 48 papers included, only 8 studies (16.67%) directly explored Al use in surgical applications across Africa. South Africa contributed 6 studies (75%), with minimal representation from other African countries. Current applications focus primarily on diagnostic AI tools rather than comprehensive surgical integration. We identified major barriers, including inadequate infrastructure, high implementation costs, data scarcity, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. Conclusions: Al adoption in African surgery remains nascent and geographically concentrated. Strengthening infrastructure, capacity, and policies could accelerate implementation and enable Africa to contribute to global surgical Al innovations