Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
Critical Analysis of ChatGPT's Responses on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Accuracy and the Need for Specialist Supervision
By R.E. De Paula, P.Ê.F. Bezerra, P.A.V. Maia and 3 others.
Abstract
Objectives
To evaluate the accuracy and clarity of answers provided by a generative language model (ChatGPT) to common questions about anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, and to determine the need for specialist supervision in interpreting this information.
Methods
Ten questions frequently posed by patients and laypeople regarding ACL injury, including its definition, common surgical procedures, clinical features, and postoperative recovery, were submitted to a language model (ChatGPT, version 5.1, on 10/12/2025). The generated responses were independently evaluated by an orthopedic surgery specialist from a tertiary hospital, with over ten years of experience and a master's degree. Answers were classified for appropriateness (excellent, satisfactory, inadequate) and for the need for additional clarification (none, minimal, moderate).