Abstract
BACKGROUND: Clinical decision-making and critical thinking are vital in orthopaedic practice, directly impacting patient outcomes. Surgeons often face complex cases requiring both experience and systematic reasoning to ensure the best treatment approach. This review aims to explore the factors influencing decision-making in orthopaedics, focusing on the role of critical thinking in enhancing clinical choices. It examines decision-making frameworks, cognitive biases, and the importance of evidence-based practices. Additionally, the review discusses the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and decision support systems in aiding clinical decisions. METHODS: This review analyzes peer-reviewed literature published from 2011 to 2024, covering case studies, surveys, qualitative research, and systematic reviews. Databases like PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar were used to source relevant articles. The focus was on decision-making frameworks, cognitive biases, and AI integration in orthopaedics, particularly studies on AI and data analytics in improving decision support systems. RESULTS: Structured decision-making frameworks and mentorship play a key role in enhancing critical thinking. Cognitive biases, such as confirmation and anchoring bias, are significant challenges. AI and evidence-based guidelines help improve clinical decisions by offering data-driven insights. CONCLUSIONS: Optimizing clinical decision-making requires structured education, critical thinking development, and AI integration to improve patient outcomes and streamline decision-making.