The Use of Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning in Medical Imaging: A Nationwide Survey of Trainees in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Artificial intelligence is dramatically transforming medical imaging. We assessed the levels of artificial intelligence use among radiology trainees and explored their perceived impact of artifi-cial intelligence on the radiology workflow and radiology profession, in correlation with the perceived ease of use and behavioral intention to use artificial intelligence. This cross-sectional study enrolled radiology trainees from Saudi Arabia, and an online 5-part-structured question-naire was disseminated via online networks to trainee in July 2021. We included 98 participants (51 male; age 27.59±2.02 years). Level of use was low; few used it in routine practice (7%). The impact of artificial intelligence on the radiology workflow was positively perceived in all radi-ology workflow steps (3.64–3.97 out of 5). A positive impact on the radiology profession was more frequently perceived for technical and performance aspects (81%–85%) compared with prestige and legal aspects (64%–71%). Perceived ease of use and behavioral intention to use arti-ficial intelligence was associated with the current professional activity, level of use artificial in-telligence use, and perceived impact on the profession as well as on radiology workflow (p<0.05). Levels of artificial intelligence use in radiology are very low. The perceived positive impact of ar-tificial intelligence on radiology workflow and profession is correlated with an increase in be-havioral intention to use artificial intelligence. Thus, increasing awareness about the favorable impact can improve the behavioral use.

Radiology Residents' and Radiologists' Perception and Attitude Towards Medical Artificial Intelligence in Radiology– An Initial National Multicenter Survey

“…AI is expected to substantially transform radiology in the coming years, with a noticeable impact predicted within 5 years. [29] Respondents saw AI applications as promising for radiology practice but not threatening to the profession. Other studies have also shown AI's potential to transform radiologists' daily work, though whether this will re ne or diminish the radiologist's role remains debated.…”

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Future of Radiographer Career in Saudi Arabia

“…Moreover, different knowledge levels and attitudes were observed among radiologists in Saudi Arabia. Some studies showed good knowledge of radiologists in AI and ML use in radiography [54,55], while other authors showed low levels of knowledge toward AI [56].…”

“…Mirza et al [56] that a significant portion of radiology residents felt that AI would lessen the workload in the field of radiology [54], while Qurashi et al [55] stated that over half of radiology staff are worried about the detrimental effects of AI on their field of work.…”