American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) Report on Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

This report synthesizes the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) Task Force's guidance on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (OHNS). A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on the applications, benefits, and challenges of AI in OHNS, alongside ethical, legal, and social implications. The Task Force, formulated by otolaryngologist experts in AI, used an iterative approach, adapted from the Delphi method, to prioritize topics for inclusion and to reach a consensus on guiding principles. The Task Force's findings highlight AI's transformative potential for OHNS, offering potential advancements in precision medicine, clinical decision support, operational efficiency, research, and education. However, challenges such as data quality, health equity, privacy concerns, transparency, regulatory gaps, and ethical dilemmas necessitate careful navigation. Incorporating AI into otolaryngology practice in a safe, equitable, and patient-centered manner requires clinician judgment, transparent AI systems, and adherence to ethical and legal standards. The Task Force principles underscore the importance of otolaryngologists' involvement in AI's ethical development, implementation, and regulation to harness benefits while mitigating risks. The proposed principles inform the integration of AI in otolaryngology, aiming to enhance patient outcomes, clinician well-being, and efficiency of health care delivery.