Governance Framework for Safe and Ethical Implementation of Artificial Intelligence in Surgery: A Modified-Delphi Consensus

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled clinical decision support systems (CDSS) demonstrate performance comparable or superior to human experts in certain tasks. However, their integration into surgical practice faces a significant implementation gap, alongside ethical, privacy, and legal concerns. Clear governance frameworks are needed to guide their responsible adoption in surgery, to prevent inconsistent application, care quality variation, and exacerbation of algorithmic bias. Herein, we establish a systematic, evidence-based, and consensus-driven framework to guide the ethical, effective, and sustainable adoption of AI-enabled CDSS in surgery. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase databases until 2024 to identify key governance themes. The themes informed the generation of candidate items, which were then refined through a multi-round expert panel consensus process utilizing a modified Delphi approach to produce the final framework. RESULTS: Thematic analysis of 80 full-text articles meeting inclusion criteria identified four overarching themes for AI governance: (1) Technical Prerequisites and Model Design, (2) Clinical Implementation and Human Factors, (3) Ethics, Safety, and Trustworthiness, and (4) Bias, Fairness, and Equity. Panel consensus evaluation resulted in the development of a 19-item framework. CONCLUSIONS: The consensus-driven framework presented herein provides foundational guidance essential for navigating the complexities of implementing AI-enabled CDSS safely and ethically in surgery. Addressing the considerations outlined across these four core themes can facilitate the responsible adoption of AI, accelerating the transition towards an advanced, data-driven surgical practice while mitigating potential risks.

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