Exactech Unveils New Study on Predict+ Machine Learning Tool
Exactech, a global leader in orthopedic implant devices and smart technologies, has published a pioneering study evaluating the fairness and accuracy of its machine learning clinical decision support tool, Predict+. This innovative tool provides precise predictions for shoulder arthroplasty patients, considering diverse demographic factors such as ethnicity, sex, and age.
Exactech’s recent study, the first of its kind in orthopedics, introduces a novel statistical test methodology to assess the fairness of AI predictions. The study breaks down potential barriers to adopting machine learning tools in clinical decision support and establishes crucial criteria for acceptable differences in prediction accuracy among different patient groups.
Assessing Fairness:
To determine fairness, the study evaluated Predict+ across more than 8,000 patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. The analysis considered patient sub-groups of age, gender, and ethnicity. Predict+ achieved fairness ratings of 98.6% for regression predictions, 99.4% for substantial clinical benefit (SCB) classification predictions, and a perfect 100% for minimal clinically important difference (MCID) classification predictions.
Overcoming Bias in AI Predictions:
Chris Roche, Exactech’s Sr. Vice President of extremities, highlighted the importance of overcoming bias in AI predictions, which can significantly impact decision-making. Vikas Kumar, Exactech’s Vice President of Machine Learning, emphasized the critical need for diverse datasets representative of all potential patients.
Predict+ in Action:
Predict+, introduced in November 2020 as part of Exactech’s Active Intelligence portfolio, is designed to inform surgeons about expected outcomes after shoulder arthroplasty. Based on a vast database comprising more than 15,000 patients, Predict+ empowers surgeons with valuable insights, contributing to better decision-making in joint replacement surgery.
Exactech’s commitment to advancing the field of orthopedics through cutting-edge technology is evident in the success of Predict+. This study validates the tool’s fairness and accuracy and sets a benchmark for evaluating machine learning clinical decision support tools. Surgeons worldwide now have access to a tool that not only meets the highest standards of accuracy but also ensures fairness across diverse patient populations, marking a significant stride in the integration of AI in orthopedic practices.
