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The prospect of a neurosurgeon being guided by artificial intelligence (AI) to perform brain surgery is thought-provoking. The potential precision AI offers in diagnosing and treating complex medical procedures might be closer to reality than many realise. AI has rapidly begun to influence many aspects of life. For Auckland Bioengineering Institute research fellow Dr Hamid Abasi, this technology has led him to a medical research breakthrough.
“AI is poised to revolutionise every aspect of current medical practice and patient care, equipped with robust capabilities that significantly enhance outcomes,” says Dr Abasi.
For Hamid, the revolution is embodied in an advanced neuro-navigation tool called Neurofanos. This project was led by a transdisciplinary team of biomedical engineers, neurosurgeons from Auckland City Hospital, and researchers at the Mātai Medical Research Institute.
“AI improves precision and helps surgeons see through the ‘unseen’ to visualise and preserve critical structures at every moment of surgery,” explains Hamid. “Knowing those factors helps reduce accidental harm and improves patient care and outcomes.”
Beyond Neurofanos, Hamid believes that AI will play an increasing role in personalised or precision medicine for illnesses like cancer. Advanced algorithms can explore complex data that humans struggle to comprehend. “AI can analyse it in a blink and determine specific types of care needed for each patient, including the optimal timing for treatments.”
Dr Reza Shahamiri leverages his expertise in deep learning engineering to design software that makes healthcare more accessible and provides better digital tools for professionals. For over a decade, he has developed automatic speech-recognition technologies that help those with speech impediments communicate. He also works on analysing speech patterns to identify early signs of dementia, emphasising the importance of early detection to manage the condition.”
Reza is also developing an AI platform to aid in the early identification of autistic children. His Autism AI platform has collected behavioural data from around 12,000 people worldwide. “Early identification ensures that support plans are more effective.”
Highlighting the power of AI, Reza mentions a conversational AI diagnostics tool, AMIE, which was found to be more accurate than primary care physicians in diagnosing patients in a blind trial.
As the leader of the Strong AI Lab (SAIL) at the University of Auckland, Professor Michael Witbrock believes that the limitations surrounding AI will be overcome swiftly. “AI is here to stay and will improve rapidly due to the enormous need for better problem-solving capabilities for humanity and the financial incentives driving this progress.”
With its history of embracing change, New Zealand is well-positioned to integrate AI effectively. “New Zealand can potentially lead in AI innovation and implementation,” says Michael.
Given the country’s productivity challenges and limited population, Michael and his team are focused on creating an ‘intelligent ecosystem’ where AI enhances organisational and human intelligence. “AI could help us become the most productive country globally.”
On the academic front, Michael helped design a new Master of Artificial Intelligence programme at the University, aiming to attract local and international talent. As co-founder, he emphasises the need for technological capacity to meet Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the potential of AI in various sectors, including agriculture and healthcare.
Professor Gill Dobbie and her team at the School of Computer Science’s Machine Learning Group are working on eliminating bias and inaccuracies in AI models. They aim to develop neural networks that function more like the human brain, producing more prosperous and accurate results.
Integrating AI into healthcare, education, and other sectors promises significant advancements. However, ensuring ethical use and addressing data sovereignty remain critical challenges. With concerted efforts and continued research, New Zealand can lead the way in harnessing AI for societal benefit.
