Exploring artificial intelligence in orthopaedics: A collaborative survey from the ISAKOS Young Professional Task...

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Artificial Intelligence
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly discussed in various medical fields, including orthopaedics.
• Understanding current adoption, challenges, and future potential of AI in orthopaedics is crucial for guiding research and implementation.
• The International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS) surveyed professionals to gauge perspectives on AI in orthopaedics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a scholarly foundation for AI in orthopaedics.
• To identify key patterns, challenges, and future directions for AI applications in the field.
• To analyze survey data on AI adoption and interest among orthopaedic surgeons.

Main Methods:

• A 26-question survey was developed and distributed by the ISAKOS Young Professionals Task Force.
• Data from 211 completed questionnaires were collected and analyzed.
• The survey targeted orthopaedic surgeons across diverse geographic regions.

Main Results:

• A significant portion of respondents (52.1%) expressed uncertainty distinguishing AI, machine learning, and deep learning.
• Imaging-based diagnosis (60.2%) was identified as the primary area for AI benefit.
• While only 25.1% currently use AI, 95.3% expressed strong interest in future adoption and research.

Conclusions:

• Current AI adoption in orthopaedics is low, attributed to a lack of knowledge, unproven utility, and high costs.
• Despite challenges, there is substantial interest among orthopaedic surgeons for further AI research and integration into daily practice.
• Future research should focus on areas like patient outcome prediction and image-based diagnosis to enhance AI's role in orthopaedics.