[How can an otolaryngologist benefit from artificial neural networks?]

Artificial neural networks are informatic systems that have unique computational capabilities. The principle of their functioning is based on the rules of data processing in the brain. This article discusses the most important features of the artificial neural networks with reference to their applications in otolaryngology. The cited studies concern the fields of rhinology, audiology, phoniatrics, vestibulology, oncology, sleep apnea and salivary gland diseases. The authors also refer to their own experience with predictive neural models designed in the Department of Otolaryngology of the Jagiellonian University Medical College in Krakow. The applications of artificial neural networks in clinical diagnosis, automated signal interpretation and outcome prediction are presented. Moreover, the article explains how the artificial neural networks work and how the otolaryngologists can use them in their clinical practice and research.