Our Summary

This research paper is about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in answering common questions about hand and wrist surgery. The study evaluated responses from two popular AI platforms, Gemini and ChatGPT, to 12 common questions. The quality and usefulness of the responses were then evaluated using three different scoring systems. The study found that the responses were generally ‘good’ and ‘adequate’, but there were differences in quality based on the AI platform used, the type of question asked, and the order of the responses. None of the responses provided any citations or sources. Responses to questions about wrist surgery were rated higher than those about hand surgery. The second responses given by the AI were also rated higher than the first. Overall, Gemini’s responses scored higher than ChatGPT’s. The study concludes that while AI can provide useful information, it’s important to understand that the quality can vary.

FAQs

  1. What were the AI platforms evaluated in the study regarding hand and wrist surgery?
  2. How did the study rate the quality and usefulness of responses from the AI platforms?
  3. How did the responses from Gemini and ChatGPT differ in terms of quality according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might tell a patient about hand surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include keeping the hand elevated, taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in physical therapy as recommended. It’s important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hand surgery include those with the following conditions:

  1. Carpal tunnel syndrome: A condition where the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand and fingers.

  2. Trigger finger: A condition where one of the fingers or thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then straightens with a snap.

  3. Dupuytren’s contracture: A condition where the tissue in the palm of the hand thickens and tightens over time, causing the fingers to curl.

  4. Arthritis: Inflammatory joint disease that can affect the hands and wrists, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

  5. Tendon injuries: Injuries to the tendons in the hand or wrist, which can result from trauma or repetitive use, leading to pain and limited function.

  6. Fractures: Broken bones in the hand or wrist that may require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone for proper healing.

  7. Ganglion cysts: Fluid-filled lumps that form on the hand or wrist, which may cause pain or discomfort and may require surgical removal.

  8. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and difficulty with movement.

  9. Nerve injuries: Damage to the nerves in the hand or wrist, which can result from trauma, compression, or other factors, leading to pain, weakness, and numbness.

Overall, hand surgery may be recommended for patients with a range of conditions affecting the hand and wrist that do not respond to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or splinting. These patients may benefit from surgical intervention to improve function, reduce pain, and restore mobility in the affected hand or wrist.

Timeline

Before hand surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms or injury that necessitates hand surgery.
  2. Patient consults with a hand surgeon to discuss treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, such as imaging tests and blood work.
  4. Patient schedules a surgery date and prepares for the procedure, including arranging for transportation and post-operative care.

After hand surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the hand surgery procedure, which can vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then discharged to go home or to a hospital room for further observation.
  3. Patient follows post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon, which may include wearing a splint or brace, taking pain medication, and attending physical therapy.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns or complications.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and regains function in the hand through rehabilitation exercises and therapy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hand surgery include:

  1. What specific procedure do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process?
  4. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available?
  6. What is the success rate of this surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  7. Will I need any additional tests or consultations before the surgery?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  10. What kind of post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be required?
  11. What kind of scarring can I expect after the surgery?
  12. Are there any long-term implications or restrictions following the surgery?

It is important for patients to ask these questions to fully understand the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes of hand surgery.

Reference

Authors: Pautler B, Marchese C, Swancutt M, Beutel BG. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2025 Apr;30(2):205-212. doi: 10.1142/S2424835525500171. Epub 2025 Jan 5. PMID: 39773151