Operationalizing AI in Orthopaedic Practice: Governance, Integration, and Future Clinical Applications-Operational AI Webinar

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar "Operationalizing AI in Orthopedic Practice" featured experts from Duke University and UCSF discussing AI integration, governance, and clinical applications in orthopedics. Dr. Christian Payon emphasized the overwhelming landscape of AI tools, highlighting ambient scribe technology that automates clinical documentation, reducing physician burnout and saving time. He illustrated how AI can improve operational efficiency, patient triage, and engagement, but stressed the need for transparency and cautious vendor selection to avoid data misuse or misinformation.<br /><br />Dr. Travis Zack provided foundational AI concepts, explaining different AI types and their application in healthcare. He highlighted the importance of model training, explainability, and integration with hospital IT systems while cautioning that AI tools must be tailored, validated, and governed to ensure appropriate clinical use. He advocated for multidisciplinary AI governance boards and supportive infrastructure to facilitate safe and effective deployment of AI solutions.<br /><br />Dr. Michael Pensina focused on ethical governance as the foundation for trustworthy AI. He outlined principles including usefulness, safety, accountability, transparency, privacy, and fairness, emphasizing that AI must serve human needs and be closely monitored post-deployment. Pensina noted challenges such as unpredictability, potential skill degradation among clinicians, and the lack of robust evidence and regulatory oversight, calling for stronger frameworks and continuous evaluation.<br /><br />Panelists also addressed concerns about deepfake misinformation, the risk of AI replacing physicians, and liability issues. They agreed AI will augment rather than replace clinicians in the near term, particularly given legal and ethical complexities. Education, early adoption with a skeptical eye, and clear governance are critical for harnessing AI’s benefits while mitigating risks. Overall, the discussion underscored AI’s transformative potential in musculoskeletal care, provided careful attention to responsible implementation, and anticipated continued evolution in clinical practice.

Keywords

Operationalizing AI

Orthopedic Practice

AI Integration

Ambient Scribe Technology

Physician Burnout Reduction

AI Governance

Ethical AI Principles

Clinical AI Applications

Multidisciplinary AI Boards

AI in Musculoskeletal Care