A Nationwide Web-Based Survey of Neuroradiologists’ Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence Software for Neuro-Applications in Korea

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate current expectations and clinical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) software among neuroradiologists in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In April 2022, a 30-item online survey was conducted by neuroradiologists from the Korean Society of Neuroradiology (KSNR) to assess current user experiences, perceptions, attitudes, and future expectations regarding AI for neuro-applications. Respondents with experience in AI software were further investigated in terms of the number and type of software used, period of use, clinical usefulness, and future scope. Results were compared between respondents with and without experience with AI software through multivariable logistic regression and mediation analyses. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 73 respondents, accounting for 21.9% (73/334) of the KSNR members; 72.6% (53/73) were familiar with AI and 58.9% (43/73) had used AI software, with approximately 86% (37/43) using 1–3 AI software programs and 51.2% (22/43) having up to one year of experience with AI software. Among AI software types, brain volumetry software was the most common (62.8% [27/43]). Although 52.1% (38/73) assumed that AI is currently useful in practice, 86.3% (63/73) expected it to be useful for clinical practice within 10 years. The main expected benefits were reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks (91.8% [67/73]) and improving reading accuracy and reducing errors (72.6% [53/73]). Those who experienced AI software were more familiar with AI (adjusted odds ratio, 7.1 [95% confidence interval, 1.81–27.81]; P = 0.005). More than half of the respondents with AI software experience (55.8% [24/43]) agreed that AI should be included in training curriculums, while almost all (95.3% [41/43]) believed that radiologists should coordinate to improve its performance. CONCLUSION: A majority of respondents experienced AI software and showed a proactive attitude toward adopting AI in clinical practice, suggesting that AI should be incorporated into training and active participation in AI development should be encouraged.