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Page 244 Giakas et al. Art Int Surg 2024;4:233-46 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/ais.2024.24

Figure 1. Summary of scores to ChatGPT responses.

focus. A current limitation of ChatGPT software is its inability to provide patient-specific recommendations
based on individual clinical data. One way to improve ChatGPT’s software, therefore, would be to include a
method by which a patient could upload imaging in a HIPPA-compliant manner. ChatGPT could then use
this diagnostic information, in conjunction with patient-reported symptoms, to make more specific
recommendations. Finally, the present study attempts to analyze ChatGPT’s responses to common patient
questions, as it is the most widely utilized and easily accessible AI chatbot presently available for consumers.
However, future studies could aim to compare the clinical accuracy and utility of responses given by
different chatbots to systematically determine which might be best suited to providing patients with useful
preoperative information.

In summation, ChatGPT has the ability to provide broadly useful responses to common preoperative
questions that patients may have when considering undergoing PLD. ChatGPT has excellent utility in
providing background information to patients and in helping them become more informed about their
pathology in general. However, it often lacks the specific patient context, especially patient imaging data
such as X-ray, CT, and MRI, necessary to provide patients with proper, accurate insights into their personal
prognosis and medical options. Fortunately, ChatGPT does state its own limitations and consistently
recommends using any information it provides in context with the consultation of a spine surgeon. In such
instances, where patients use ChatGPT as background information to prepare for in-person appointments
with a spine surgeon, this additional knowledge can be beneficial in enabling them to actively participate in
the shared decision-making process regarding their medical care and take shared responsibility for their
outcomes.

DECLARATIONS
Authors’ contributions
Made substantial contributions to the conception and design of the study and performed data analysis and
interpretation: Giakas AM, Narayanan R, Ezeonu T, Dalton J, Mangan J, Schroeder G, Kepler C
Performed data acquisition, as well as providing administrative, technical, and material support: Giakas
AM, Narayanan R, Ezeonu T, Mangan J, Schroeder G, Kepler C