AI Tools in Plastic Surgery: A Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Artificial Intelligence
• Medical Technology

Background:

• The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in plastic surgery is rapidly expanding.
• A comprehensive reference for AI applications in plastic surgery is currently lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate and summarize existing AI tools and their applications within plastic surgery.
• To highlight the growing potential of AI to enhance the field.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles.
• AI tools were categorized based on their application: clinical efficiency, imaging/documentation, communication/workflow, and research/data analysis.

Main Results:

• AI tools demonstrate significant utility across various plastic surgery domains.
• Virtual assistants and large language models enhance patient communication and reduce documentation burden.
• AI improves 2D/3D imaging for surgical planning, facial analysis, and volumetric prediction.
• Tools accelerate literature review, chart review, and data extraction.
• Workflow tools enhance communication, and specialized AI monitors critical surgical elements like free flaps.

Conclusions:

• AI's precision and efficiency enhance patient safety and satisfaction in plastic surgery.
• AI tools are crucial for reducing physician burden and burnout.
• As AI technology advances, it will become integral to achieving high-quality aesthetic and reconstructive surgical outcomes.