Interactive multiobjective optimization for finding the most preferred exercise therapy modality in knee osteoarthritis

Background There are no explicit guidelines or tools available to support clinicians in selecting exercise therapy modalities according to the characteristics of individual patients despite the apparent need. Objective This study develops a methodology based on a novel multiobjective optimization model and examines its feasibility as a decision support tool to support healthcare professionals in comparing different modalities and identifying the most preferred one based on a patient's needs. Methods Thirty-one exercise therapy modalities were considered from 21 randomized controlled trials. A novel interactive multiobjective optimization model was designed to characterize the efficacy of an exercise therapy modality based on five objectives: minimizing cost, maximizing pain reduction, maximizing disability improvement, minimizing the number of supervised sessions, and minimizing the length of the treatment period. An interactive model incorporates clinicians' preferences in finding the most preferred exercise therapy modality for each need. Multiobjective optimization methods are mathematical algorithms designed to identify the optimal balance between multiple conflicting objectives among available solutions/alternatives. They explicitly evaluate the conflicting objectives and support decision-makers in identifying the best balance. An experienced research-oriented physiotherapist was involved as a decision-maker in the interactive solution process testing the proposed decision support tool. Results The proposed methodology design and interactive process of the tool, including preference information, graphs, and exercise suggestions following the preferences, can help clinicians to find the most preferred exercise therapy modality based on a patient's needs and health status; paving the way to individualize recommendations. Conclusions We examined the feasibility of our decision support tool using an interactive multiobjective optimization method designed to help clinicians balance between conflicting objectives to find the most preferred exercise therapy modality for patients with knee osteoarthritis. The proposed methodology is generic enough to be applied in any field of medical and healthcare settings, where several alternative treatment options exist. KEY MESSAGES We demonstrate the potential of applying Interactive multiobjective optimization methods in a decision support tool to help clinicians compare different exercise therapy modalities and identify the most preferred one based on a patient's needs. The usability of the proposed decision support tool is tested and demonstrated in prescribing exercise therapy modalities to treat knee osteoarthritis patients.