Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential role of artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT-4, in generating patient education materials (PEMs) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of our study was to compare the quality and readability of PEMs for TKA generated by ChatGPT-4 with those created by human experts, to assess the potential for the use of AI in patient education. Methods We assessed the quality and readability of TKA PEMs produced by ChatGPT-4 and six reputable human-generated websites. Readability was compared using Flesch-Kincaid Reading Grade Level and Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease. The quality of information was compared using the DISCERN criteria. Results ChatGPT-4 PEMs demonstrated a significantly higher reading grade level and lower reading ease score compared to human-generated PEMs < 0.001. There was no difference in reliability and quality of information. Conclusion The utility of ChatGPT-4 for producing TKA patient education materials is currently limited by readability issues, leading to a recommendation against its use. Future AI enhancements should prioritise readability to ensure information is more accessible. Effective collaboration between AI developers and healthcare professionals is vital for improving patient education outcomes.