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Purpose: Otolaryngology has experienced notable advancements and growth in the application of artificial intelligence (AI). However, otolaryngologists' perception of these tools are lacking. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of otolaryngologists toward AI. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 110 otolaryngologists in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. A piloted questionnaire was used to gather information on knowledge, attitude, and opinions regarding AI. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. Results: Of the sample, 60% indicated average perceived knowledge of AI, while approximately 44.5% perceived their AI knowledge in the field of otolaryngology to be below average. A significant positive correlation was identified between knowledge and attitude scores. It was found that a higher knowledge score was more closely associated with seeing more than 15 patients per day, while a higher attitude score was more closely associated with being older, being a consultant, and having more years of professional experience. Of the sample, 38.2% strongly agreed that the application of AI in scientific research should be included in the residency training program. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of incorporating AI tools into certain aspects of the otolaryngology residency training program, highlighting their significance.
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OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to investigate the test-retest reliability of measurements of loudness discomfort levels (LDLs), to suggest cut-off values for diagnosing patients with hyperacusis, and to evaluate the clinical value of-LDL measurements as a test for monitoring hyperacusis. METHODS: For the test-retest reliability of LDL measurements (study 1), a total of 68 patients who sought consultations at our clinic were subcategorized into four groups: patients with tinnitus (group 1), tinnitus and hearing loss (group 2), hyperacusis (group 3), and normal controls (group 4). Inter-hour and inter-day test-retest reliability values using different stimuli were investigated. For study 2, the clinical value of LDL measurements using pure tone stimuli was analyzed by comparing changes after sound generator use in patients with hyperacusis. RESULTS: In study 1, the group 3 patients showed significantly lower LDLs than the other groups. High test-retest reliability of LDL tests was demonstrated, regardless of the type of stimulus used. The cut-off values for screening patients with hyperacusis were 90 dB HL using pure tone stimuli and 62 dB HL using white-band noise stimuli. In study 2, significantly increased LDLs were correlated with improved symptoms and improved scores on tinnitus questionnaires after sound generator use, indicating that LDL measurement is a reliable test for monitoring hyperacusis during an intervention. CONCLUSION: LDL measurement is a reliable diagnostic tool to reflect the condition of hyperacusis, especially during the course of treatment.
