Surgeon Perception of Artificial Intelligence in Thoracic Surgery: Insights From an International Survey

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine has increased dramatically. Its use will expand in cardiothoracic (CT) surgery and alter current practice. This study surveyed CT surgeons to gain insight into their beliefs, hopes, and fears regarding AI.

A 25-question instrument addressing AI use in CT surgery was created, focusing on the domains of role, value, effect, threat, and regulation of AI. In coordination with several CT surgical societies, the survey was electronically distributed to and completed by the societies' members. After filtering, 424 complete deidentified responses were collected and analyzed. Answers were scored on a Likert scale and collapsed into categories for analysis.

There was a broad range of responses that varied from very negative to very positive. Most statistically significant differences in responses among demographics primarily related to the role and value of AI in clinical care areas. Specifically, female surgeons, younger surgeons, and thoracic (as opposed to cardiac) surgeons envisioned a smaller role for AI. Physicians believed that regulation of AI should come from professional societies and federal governments and supported a proactive approach to the integration of AI into CT surgery, including engagement with industry and sharing of specialty-specific texts and databases.

As AI is further implemented in medicine, CT surgery faces a rapidly changing landscape. Expectedly, feelings among physicians are mixed. However, there are clear areas of agreement about the benefit of AI integration and broad support for proactive approaches to integration.