Attitudes toward artificial intelligence among otolaryngologists: an intergenerational survey

Abstract Objectives Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into medical practice, including otorhinolaryngology, where it has potential applications in diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical decision support. Physicians’ acceptance of these technologies may vary according to generational, professional, and institutional factors. This study aimed to evaluate intergenerational differences in awareness, perceptions, and anticipated clinical use of artificial intelligence among otorhinolaryngology specialists. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous online questionnaire distributed to otorhinolaryngology residents and specialists practicing in Turkey. The survey included 17 items addressing demographic characteristics, computer proficiency, awareness and perceptions of artificial intelligence, emotional responses, and intended future use. A total of 181 physicians participated. Associations between generational groups and other variables were analyzed using the chi-square test. Results Overall acceptance of artificial intelligence was high across all generations. Perceived diagnostic applicability differed significantly across generations ( p = 0.002); Bonferroni-adjusted comparisons indicated lower endorsement in Generation Y (48.0%) than in Baby Boomers (76.9%) and Generation X (78.8%), with Generation Z intermediate (55.6%), indicating a non-monotonic pattern. Diagnostic endorsement also increased across ordered professional-experience categories (linear-by-linear association p = 0.004), and physicians with 20–29 years of experience endorsed diagnostic use more often than those with < 10 years (Bonferroni-adjusted p = 0.005); because generation and experience are closely correlated, their independent contributions cannot be separated in this cross-sectional design. Trust in AI-generated data ( p = 0.30) and ethical acceptance ( p = 0.31) were high overall but did not differ significantly across generations. Male physicians reported higher computer proficiency ( p = 0.021) and greater optimism regarding artificial intelligence ( p < 0.001). Conclusion Perceptions of artificial intelligence among otorhinolaryngology specialists differ across generations, although overall acceptance remains high. The observed differences in diagnostic expectations were associated with both generation and professional experience; because these variables are closely correlated in a cross-sectional design, they should not be interpreted as independent effects. Given the convenience sample, unequal subgroup sizes, and multiple comparisons performed, these findings should be regarded as exploratory, and studies using validated instruments and multivariable analysis are needed. Level of evidence 4