Background Recent advances in artificial intelligence are transforming surgery through innovations in diagnostics, planning, efficiency, and outcomes. This review analyses contemporary literature to establish current research and forecast the future of AI in surgical practice. Aim To evaluate contemporary literature on AI in surgery, establishing the current foundational understanding of the field. Subsequently, the review forecasts future trajectories of AI within surgical practice, contemplating the emerging technologies and advancements that may redefine surgery in the coming years. Method An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central using the terms: “Artificial intelligence” AND “surgery”. Results were filtered from 1 June 2022 to 1 June 2023 inclusive to ensure contemporaneity. Over 3000 recent articles were systematically reviewed and categorized by surgical specialty and content to elucidate trends. Results Analysis revealed a focus on deep learning, convolutional neural networks, radiomics, and robotic integration to enhance diagnostics, planning, efficiency, and patient outcomes. From 5,274 articles identified, 3,236 met the criteria for final analysis, leading to 4,119 surgical disciplines and 3,645 topic allocations. General Surgery, Urology, and Radiology emerged as top specialties by publication, with diagnostic and treatment planning, and robotic surgery as leading topics. Conclusion AI will likely soon permeate most aspects of surgical care through personalized assessments, real-time guidance, automation, and remote capabilities. Responsible governance and clinician education are key to safely harnessing AI's immense potential benefits for surgical patients.