Researchers explore potential for AI to predict patients' pain management support needs after surgeryA Mayo Clinic retrospective study of 9,731 patients explored the potential of artificial intelligence to predict a patient's need for opioid refills after surgery.
Researchers emphasize that identifying patients who may need prescription refills does not mean simply prescribing more opioids. Rather, through the AI models,-based medications and non-pharmacologic strategies exist to manage postoperative pain," says senior study author Cornelius A. Thiels, D.O., a surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic."Thisis intended to help physicians identify when the current strategy is insufficient and augment that strategy with these tools as needed.
While the mathematical modeling used in the study is more advanced, the overall concept is something physicians have relied on for years, the researchers say. Although further validation is needed before implementing this into practice, they note that clinicians must use AI as a supportive tool to improve patient treatments rather than as a substitute for judgment.