Many of us continue to associate “Artificial Intelligence” (AI) with the worst moments in The Terminator, Ex Machina, or The Matrix. Others think first of the known ethical challenges of AI and the potential workforce disruption of widespread AI implementation in healthcare and beyond. Dr. Mas Takashima, AI expert and chair of Houston Methodist’s Otolaryngology Department, wants to change our lingering apprehensions around AI. In this episode, Dr. Takashima interviews his Houston Methodist colleague and guest host Dr. Omar Ahmed.

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SYNPOSIS

First, Dr. Takashima shares his journey from video gamer to sinus surgeon and advocate for AI in medicine. He explains relevant concepts such as Generative Preformed Transformer (GPT) and neural network. Then, he and Dr. Ahmed dive into applications of AI to ENT, which include (but aren’t limited to) analysis of CT images, prediction of surgical success, and screening of residency applications. They review the unique challenges of applying this powerful technology to healthcare and emphasize the importance of safeguarding patient privacy in the era of Big Data. Finally, Dr. Takashima challenges his fellow otolaryngologists and researchers to embrace this transformative technology.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

11:43 - AI 101

23:26 - Applications of AI in Medicine

31:21 - Current & Emerging Applications of AI in ENT

33:44 - Using AI to Improve Surgical Robotics

39:09 - AI in Personalized Medicine

46:41 - AI in Medical Education

57:23 - Ethics & AI: The Need for an Updated HIPAA

01:02:20 - The Future of AI in ENT

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RESOURCES

Dr. Mas Takashima’s Houston Methodist profile: https://www.houstonmethodist.org/doctor/masayoshi-takashima/

Dr. Omar Ahmed’s Houston Methodist profile: https://www.houstonmethodist.org/doctor/omar-g-ahmed/