The growing presence of AI-generated content in ophthalmology: a retrospective bibliographic analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the prevalence and trends of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content in ophthalmology manuscripts, particularly following the public release of OpenAI's ChatGPT on November 30, 2022.

METHODS

A retrospective bibliographic analysis was conducted on 1 036 manuscripts from 30 ophthalmology journals, divided into pre-December 2022 (519 manuscripts) and post-December 2022 (517 manuscripts) periods. AI-generated content was evaluated using the Originality Standard 2.0.0 model, which calculates AI probability scores (AIPS) ranging from 0% to 100%. Readability metrics (e.g., Flesch-Kincaid Score) and journal impact metrics (e.g., impact factor) were analyzed.

RESULTS

AIPS remained stable from 2014 to 2022 but increased significantly after December 2022 (p < 0.001). The mean AIPS rose from 4.95% in 2022 to 11.2% by mid-2024, with projections estimating 17.51% by mid-2026. Editorials exhibited the highest mean AIPS (12.8%), while surgical technique studies had the lowest (4.33%). Higher AIPS were associated with lower journal impact factors (Spearman's ρ = -0.54; p < 0.001) and simpler language, as reflected by lower Automated Readability Index scores (Spearman's ρ = -0.12; p < 0.005). None of the included manuscripts disclosed AI usage, including 44 manuscripts with AIPS exceeding 25%.

CONCLUSIONS

AI-generated content in ophthalmology has risen significantly since ChatGPT's release. Higher AIPS correlates with lower journal impact factors and reduced literary complexity. The lack of AI usage disclosure raises ethical concerns and emphasizes the need for transparent reporting and guidelines to ensure the integrity of scientific research.