Wisdom, balance, and action: an ancient Anatolian perspective on leadership in ai-enabled surgery—a narrative mini-review

Ozmen M. M., Oviedo R. J.

Journal of Robotic Surgery, vol.20, no.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 20 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s11701-026-03301-z
  • Journal Name: Journal of Robotic Surgery
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, EMBASE, INSPEC, MEDLINE
  • Keywords: Artificial intelligence (AI), Judgment, Leadership, Responsibility, Robotic surgery
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This commentary examines surgical leadership in the era of artificial intelligence and robotic surgery, emphasizing the continued primacy of human judgment, ethical responsibility, and accountability. Drawing on historical perspectives and contemporary robotic practice, we argue that sustainable progress in AI-enabled surgery depends on balancing technological augmentation with deliberate, human-centered leadership. This article is framed as a narrative mini-review, integrating recent literature with a conceptual analysis of leadership in AI-enabled and robotic surgery.