Artificial intelligence in orthopedic surgery: evolution, current state and future directions

Technological advances continue to evolve at a breath-taking pace. Computer-navigation, robot-assistance and three-dimensional digital planning have become commonplace in many parts of the world. With near exponential advances in computer processing capacity, and the advent, progressive understanding and refinement of software algorithms, medicine and orthopaedic surgery have begun to delve into artificial intelligence (AI) systems. While for some, such applications still seem in the realm of science fiction, these technologies are already in selective clinical use and are likely to soon see wider uptake. The purpose of this structured review was to provide an understandable summary to non-academic orthopaedic surgeons, exploring key definitions and basic development principles of AI technology as it currently stands. To ensure content validity and representativeness, a structured, systematic review was performed following the accepted PRISMA principles. The paper concludes with a forward-look into heralded and potential applications of AI technology in orthopedic surgery. While not intended to be a detailed technical description of the complex processing that underpins AI applications, this work will take a small step forward in demystifying some of the commonly-held misconceptions regarding AI and its potential benefits to patients and surgeons. With evidence-supported broader awareness, we aim to foster an open-mindedness among clinicians toward such technologies in the future.