AI-Generated 3D Patient Twins Aim to Ease Cancer Surgery Experience

At the University Health Network in Toronto, scientists are leveraging AI to generate three-dimensional digital replicas of a patient’s anatomy, a technique they call a “digital twin.” These models allow clinicians to display a tumor’s exact location and depth, offering patients a realistic view of what will be removed during surgery. Breast-cancer survivor Adina Isenberg, who now works with the team, believes the visual aid can reduce the emotional trauma of unexpected surgical outcomes.

Staff scientist Wagner Souza explains that the 3D clone can be rotated and examined from any angle, while surgeon Amin Madani says it could replace the mental reconstruction surgeons currently perform from MRI or CT scans. Ongoing trials aim to add physical properties so the model reflects changes in body position, potentially predicting tissue movement during the operation. Researchers acknowledge technical challenges remain, but they view the technology as a promising step toward smarter, more patient-centered surgical care.