Vibe Coding in Neurosurgery: Bridging the Gap Between Clinical Needs and Digital Innovation—A Narrative Review and Practical Perspective

Abstract

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are transforming neurosurgical research and practice, yet the programming barrier has excluded most clinicians from building customized digital tools. Vibe coding — generating functional software through natural language instructions to large language models — has substantially lowered this barrier since its formalization in 2025. No study has examined its applications specifically within neurosurgery.

Methods

A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and preprint repositories through April 2026, supplemented by the author’s direct clinical experience developing vibe-coded tools in a tertiary neurosurgical unit.

Findings

Existing literature on vibe coding in medicine is sparse and limited to non-surgical specialties; no prior publication addresses it in a neurosurgical context. Three practical domains of application are identified: (1) research data collection and multi-scale patient classification, illustrated by a personally developed integrated scoring tool for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (Figure 1); (2) clinical workflow optimization including documentation and follow-up automation; and (3) educational tool development and literature engagement.

Conclusion

Vibe coding represents an accessible paradigm enabling neurosurgical trainees to develop purpose-specific digital tools without programming expertise. The field lacks specialty-specific guidance on this approach. This review aims to address that gap and encourage adoption of vibe coding as a practical complement to institutional digital health infrastructure.