Challenges and opportunities of applying artificial intelligence to burn wound management: A narrative review
The review identified several opportunities for AI in burn wound management, including enhanced diagnostic accuracy through machine learning algorithms, early detection of complications via continuous monitoring, optimized resource allocation, improved surgical outcomes with AI-assisted planning, and personalized rehabilitation programs.
Abstract
Burn injuries represent a significant global health challenge, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Effective burn wound management is critical to improving patient outcomes and optimizing healthcare resources. This study explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalizing treatment plans, optimizing resource allocation, and improving patient outcomes in burn care. The study addresses the significant challenges of implementing AI in this field. The review identified several opportunities for AI in burn wound management, including enhanced diagnostic accuracy through machine learning algorithms, early detection of complications via continuous monitoring, optimized resource allocation, improved surgical outcomes with AI-assisted planning, and personalized rehabilitation programs. However, challenges such as data quality and standardization, bias in AI models, ethical and privacy concerns, and integration with existing healthcare systems were also highlighted. The "black box" nature of AI, regulatory hurdles, and the need for clinician training pose additional barriers to implementation. AI has the potential to revolutionize burn wound management by providing more precise and efficient care. To realize these benefits, addressing challenges related to data quality, bias, ethical issues, and technical integration is crucial. Standardized data protocols, robust governance frameworks, continuous clinician education, and transparent regulatory guidelines are essential for effective AI integration. Ongoing research and collaboration between technologists, clinicians, and policymakers are vital to fully harness AI’s potential in burn carefully, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the field.