Towards Precision Medicine in Spinal Surgery: Leveraging AI Technologies

This critique explores the implications of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology, specifically OpenAI’s advanced language model GPT-4 and its interface, ChatGPT, into the field of spinal surgery. It examines the potential effects of algorithmic bias, unique challenges in surgical domains, access and equity issues, cost implications, global disparities in technology adoption, and the concept of technological determinism. It posits that biases present in AI training data may impact the quality and equity of healthcare outcomes. Challenges related to the unique nature of surgical procedures, including real-time decision-making, are also addressed. Concerns over access, equity, and cost implications underscore the potential for exacerbated healthcare disparities. Global disparities in technology adoption highlight the importance of global collaboration, technology transfer, and capacity building. Finally, the critique challenges the notion of technological determinism, emphasizing the continued importance of human judgement and patient-care provider relationship in healthcare. The critique calls for a comprehensive evaluation of AI technology integration in healthcare to ensure equitable and quality care.