test1111111111111111Role of Artificial Intelligence in counseling and decision making in Plastic Surgery: A Systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim: This study explores how AI-driven tools can enhance patient experience by delivering comprehensive, accessible information that supports informed decision-making and personalized care in plastic surgery.

Methods: Systematic searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were conducted from January 2020 to May 2025 in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies assessed AI tools in preoperative counseling for plastic or reconstructive surgery and reported quantifiable outcomes, including clarity, completeness, accuracy, and empathy. Five studies met criteria for quantitative synthesis. Standardized mean differences and odds ratios were used to perform a random effects meta-analysis.

Results: AI-generated responses, predominantly from ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4, were rated equivalent or superior to surgeon authored content for clarity, comprehensiveness, and overall quality. The pooled analysis favored AI responses (OR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.37–2.92) with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 57.2%). Empathy ratings did not differ significantly.

Conclusion: AI tools can provide preoperative counseling with clear, comprehensive, patient friendly information comparable to or surpassing that of surgeons. These tools offer a scalable adjunct for delivering consistent education while allowing clinicians to focus on individualized discussions.