Abstract
To the editor,
Thank you for sharing the reader’s thoughtful comments regarding our recent article, “Artificial Intelligence and Computer-Assisted Navigation for Shoulder Surgery,” published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery. We deeply appreciate the reader’s recognition of our efforts to advance orthopedic surgery technology.
The reader rightly highlights significant ethical and implementation challenges associated with introducing new technologies in clinical settings. Madhan et al. have categorized these ethical issues into privacy, transparency, trust, responsibility, bias, and data quality, addressing the potential risks associated with each. 1 Specifically, regarding patient privacy, advanced solutions such as homomorphic encryption (HE) and Secure Enclave (SGX) technology have been introduced. These methods ensure that data computations can be carried out securely without exposing sensitive information, thus maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of patient data.2,3
Moreover, the ethical landscape is rapidly evolving as AI and Computer-Assisted Surgery (CAS) technologies develop. We acknowledge the increasing need for robust discussions to navigate these changes, especially as these technologies become more integral to medical practice.
The concern regarding the potential overreliance on technology at the expense of surgeon expertise resonates deeply within the surgical community. This issue has been widely debated, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of maintaining a harmonious balance between human expertise and technological advancement in surgical practices. 4 Our stance firmly aligns with these findings, advocating that technology should serve as a complement to, not a substitute for, the surgeon’s essential skills.
The engagement from our readers in such discussions is invaluable. It not only enriches our work but also propels the collective progress in innovations of technology. We thank our readers for their insightful contributions and encourage ongoing dialogue to better understand and leverage these complex technologies in orthopedic surgery.
