Novant Symposium Highlights AI, Robotics in Neuroscience's Future

Experts discuss remote surgery, precision diagnostics, and advancements in spinal care

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The field of neuroscience is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and significant financial investments. Recent developments at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, highlighted at their inaugural neuroscience symposium, offer a glimpse into this exciting future, including the potential for remote surgery, AI-powered diagnostics, and minimally invasive spinal procedures.

Why it matters

These advancements in neuroscience have the potential to drastically improve patient outcomes and access to specialized care, especially in underserved areas. The $10 million gift from Michael Jordan will further fuel innovation in areas such as stroke treatment, brain tumor research, and new therapies for neurological disorders.

The details

One of the most groundbreaking possibilities discussed was the potential for remote surgery. Jeffrey Beecher, director of neuroscience at Novant Health, explained that integrating robotics and AI will eventually allow specialists to perform procedures remotely, which is crucial for time-sensitive conditions like stroke. AI is also revolutionizing diagnostics and treatment planning, with machine learning algorithms able to analyze medical images with remarkable speed and accuracy, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. Innovations aren't limited to brain surgery, as techniques like lateral access and single-position surgical techniques for spinal fusion are becoming increasingly common, offering patients less invasive options with faster recovery times.

  • The inaugural neuroscience symposium was held at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
  • The $10 million gift from Michael Jordan was recently announced to accelerate research and expand access to care within Novant Health's neuroscience institute.

The players

Jeffrey Beecher

Director of neuroscience at Novant Health and a specialized neurosurgeon in cerebrovascular and skull base surgery.

Michael Jordan

Philanthropist who recently donated $10 million to Novant Health's neuroscience institute.

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What they’re saying

“We're going to be able to have systems that we can control with our expertise and be able to do a procedure at an outlying facility that maybe doesn't have the same level of acuity but for a time sensitive illness like a stroke that is a large deal.”

— Jeffrey Beecher, Director of Neuroscience, Novant Health (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The $10 million gift from Michael Jordan is expected to accelerate research and expand access to care within Novant Health's neuroscience institute in the coming years.

The takeaway

The advancements in neuroscience, driven by AI, robotics, and significant investments, are poised to revolutionize patient care, from remote surgery to precision diagnostics and minimally invasive spinal procedures. These innovations have the potential to dramatically improve outcomes and access to specialized neurological care, especially in underserved areas.