Cloud Based AI-Driven Video Analytics (CAVs) in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Step Closer to a Virtual Portfolio

Aims: To outline the use of cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI)-driven video analytics (CAVs) in minimally invasive surgery and to propose their potential as a virtual portfolio for trainee and established surgeons. Methods: An independent online demonstration was requested from three platforms, namely Theator (Palo Alto, California, USA), Touch Surgery™ (Medtronic, London, England, UK), and C-SATS® (Seattle, Washington, USA). The assessed domains were online and app-based accessibility, the ability for timely trainee feedback, and AI integration for operation-specific steps and critical views. Results: The CAVs enable users to record surgeries with the advantage of limitless video storage through clouding and smart integration into theatre settings. This can be used to view surgeries and review trainee videos through a medium of communication and sharing with the ability to provide feedback. Theator and C-SATS® provide their users with surgical skills scoring systems with customizable options that can be used to provide structured feedback to trainees. Additionally, AI plays an important role in all three platforms by providing time-based analysis of steps and highlighting critical milestones. Conclusion: Cloud-based AI-driven video analytics is an emerging new technology that enables users to store, analyze, and review videos. This technology has the potential to improve training, governance, and standardization procedures. Moreover, with the future adaptation of the technology, CAVs can be integrated into the trainees’ portfolios as part of their virtual curriculum. This can enable a structured assessment of a surgeon’s progression and degree of experience throughout their surgical career.