Exploring Artificial Intelligence in Anesthesia: A Primer on Ethics, and Clinical Applications

Abstract

The field of anesthesia has always been at the forefront of innovation and technology, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents the next frontier in anesthesia care. The use of AI and its subtypes, such as machine learning, has the potential to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ameliorate patient outcomes. AI can assist with decision making, but its primary advantage lies in empowering anesthesiologists to adopt a proactive approach to address clinical issues. The potential uses of AI in anesthesia can be schematically grouped into clinical decision support and pharmacologic and mechanical robotic applications. Tele-anesthesia includes strategies of telemedicine, as well as device networking, for improving logistics in the operating room, and augmented reality approaches for training and assistance. Despite the growing scientific interest, further research and validation are needed to fully understand the benefits and limitations of these applications in clinical practice. Moreover, the ethical implications of AI in anesthesia must also be considered to ensure that patient safety and privacy are not compromised. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of AI in anesthesia, including its current and potential applications, and the ethical considerations that must be considered to ensure the safe and effective use of the technology.

The evolution of anesthesiology education: Embracing new technologies and teaching approaches

“…Policies for AI should be developed and implemented in a transparent manner and monitored for bias. 40,42 Patient confidentiality and autonomy must be protected, 40 and the physician-patient relationship must be preserved. The development and use of AI should follow guidelines and policies, 42,43 including the adaptation to local contexts.…”

“…40,42 Patient confidentiality and autonomy must be protected, 40 and the physician-patient relationship must be preserved. The development and use of AI should follow guidelines and policies, 42,43 including the adaptation to local contexts. 40 Education on proper integration of AI is important.…”

“…40 Education on proper integration of AI is important. 42 The complementary role of AI should be emphasized, 40 as human clinical judgment remains paramount.…”

“…Using AI in anesthesia education raises important ethical issues. Policies for AI should be developed and implemented in a transparent manner and monitored for bias 40,42 . Patient confidentiality and autonomy must be protected, 40 and the physician–patient relationship must be preserved.…”

“…The development and use of AI should follow guidelines and policies, 42,43 including the adaptation to local contexts 40 . Education on proper integration of AI is important 42 . The complementary role of AI should be emphasized, 40 as human clinical judgment remains paramount.…”