From science fiction to operating room: Representations of surgery and AI in film and their ethical implications

Abstract

This paper examines the intricate relationship between surgical practice, artificial intelligence (AI), and science fiction movies, focusing on how imaginative storytelling has foreshadowed and influenced the development of modern medical technologies. Tracing the timeline from the Industrial Revolution to the digital era, it discusses key advancements such as robotic-assisted operations, virtual reality-based surgical education, augmented reality applications, and telehealth services. The analysis draws on well-known films—including Prometheus, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Star Wars, and Fantastic Voyage—to examine how cinema has portrayed autonomous surgical tools, ethical challenges, and the evolving interaction between humans and machines. These fictional examples are compared with real-world innovations like the Da Vinci robotic system, mobile messaging for remote consultations, and AI-driven diagnostic methods. The article also addresses broader cultural shifts, including the rise of patient-focused care, greater inclusion of women in surgical roles, and the prioritization of empathy and ethical reasoning in clinical practice. Ultimately, the study asserts that while technology continues to transform surgery, the human touch remains essential. A harmonious integration of advanced tools and compassionate care is necessary to sustain the ethical and humane foundations of surgical medicine.