[(DGH) Digitalisation in Hand Surgery - A Survey on the Current Situation among Members of the German Society for Hand Surgery (DGH)].

BACKGROUND: Digitalisation, and in particular the use of artificial intelligence (AI), is becoming increasingly important in medicine. At the same time, there are significant ethical, legal, technical and structural challenges. The aim of this study is to assess the current state of digitalisation, as well as the expectations, opportunities and limitations of the use of AI and robotics-assisted systems in hand surgery, from the perspective of the members of the German Society for Hand Surgery (DGH). METHODS: In October 2025, an anonymous online survey was conducted among members of the DGH. Participants were recruited via the DGH's email distribution list. The survey was conducted using an online tool that complies with data protection regulations, following prior information and consent from the participants. The data collected included demographic information, experiences with AI in both personal and professional contexts, current and potential applications of AI in clinical practice, research and teaching, as well as perceived drivers, barriers and ethical challenges associated with AI. The study had received ethical approval. RESULTS: A total of 103 data sets were analysed. Participants used AI significantly more often in a private context than in a professional one. In routine clinical practice, the greatest added value of AI was seen in process and documentation optimizing, data management and the analysis of diagnostic data. Applications relating to diagnosis and treatment decisions were seen with considerably more caution. Ethical concerns were raised in particular regarding dependency, loss of competence, loss of control and data protection. Despite these reservations, 87% of respondents expected AI to improve clinical practice in the future. Structured training and continuing professional development programs were seen as a key prerequisite for successful implementation. CONCLUSION: The majority of DGH members surveyed see AI as a supportive assistance system designed to alleviate the burden on doctors' work and decision-making, but not to replace them. At present, robotics could be regarded as a promising field for the future, particularly in specific areas of application. For the sustainable integration of AI into hand surgery, transparent systems, legal certainty, adequate technical infrastructure and targeted training programs are essential.