Do ChatGPT and Gemini's Recommendations Align With Established Guidelines for Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery?

BACKGROUND

The use of large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT and Gemini in clinical settings has surged, presenting potential benefits in reducing administrative workload and enhancing patient communication. However, concerns about the clinical accuracy of these tools persist. This study evaluated the concordance of ChatGPT and Gemini's recommendations with American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for carpal tunnel syndrome, distal radius fractures, and glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis.

METHODS

ChatGPT (version 4o) and Gemini (version 1.5 Flash) were queried using structured text-based prompts aligned with AAOS CPGs. The LLMs' outputs were analyzed by blinded reviewers to determine concordance with the guidelines. Concordance rates were compared across models, topics, and guideline strength using descriptive statistics and McNemar's test. The transparency of responses, including source citation, was also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 174 recommendations were generated, with an overall concordance rate of 62.1%. When comparing concordance rates between LLMs, there was no statistically significant difference between ChatGPT and Gemini (66.7% vs 57.5%, = .131). Concordance varied by topic and guideline strength, with ChatGPT performing best for moderately supported guidelines. Both models demonstrated low citation transparency. Gemini provided sources for 39.1% of recommendations, significantly more than ChatGPT's 3.5% ( < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite modest concordance rates, both models exhibited significant limitations, including variability across topics and guideline strengths, as well as insufficient citation transparency. These findings highlight the challenges in integrating LLMs into clinical practice and emphasize the need for further refinement and evaluation before adoption in hand surgery.