The reliability of YouTube videos in patients education for Glioblastoma Treatment

Assessing the Quality and Accuracy of Syphilis-Related Content on TikTok and YouTube: A Comprehensive Analysis

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, pose a significant public health challenge. The advent of social media platforms has revolutionized health information dissemination, with YouTube and TikTok emerging as prominent sources. However, concerns persist regarding the reliability of syphilis-related content on these platforms. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and accuracy of syphilis-related content on TikTok and YouTube, using established tools such as DISCERN, Accuracy in Digital-health Instrument (ANDI), and Global Quality Scale (GQS).

METHODOLOGY

We conducted a thorough search on TikTok and YouTube on November 26, 2023, using the keyword "syphilis." Inclusion criteria comprised videos in English, less than 20 minutes in duration, and relevance to syphilis. Two dermatologists independently rated 98 eligible videos using DISCERN, ANDI, and GQS. Statistical analyses included χ2 tests, mean comparisons, and interclass correlation.

RESULTS

TikTok videos exhibited higher mean views (222,519 ± 412,746) compared with YouTube (127,527 ± 223,622). However, TikTok videos had lower mean GQS (2.3 ± 0.9), ANDI (2.19 ± 0.99), and DISCERN (28.7 ± 6.56) scores compared with YouTube (GQS: 2.9 ± 1.1, ANDI: 2.90 ± 0.97, DISCERN: 38.8 ± 9). Nonprofessional uploaders were 40.8% on TikTok, whereas the value was 53.1% on YouTube.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals disparities in the quality and accuracy of syphilis-related content on TikTok and YouTube. Despite higher popularity on TikTok, content quality, as assessed by DISCERN, ANDI, and GQS, was generally lower compared with YouTube. Targeted interventions are needed to improve the reliability of syphilis-related information on social media platforms.

Analysis of YouTube Videos on Endotracheal Tube Aspiration Training in Terms of Content, Reliability, and Quality

This descriptive study aims to investigate the content, quality, and reliability of YouTube videos containing content related to endotracheal tube aspiration. The study was scanned using the keywords "endotracheal aspiration" and "endotracheal tube aspiration," and 22 videos were included in the study. The contents of the selected videos were measured using the Endotracheal Tube Aspiration Skill Form, their reliability was measured using the DISCERN Survey, and their quality was measured using the Global Quality Scale. Of the 22 videos that met the inclusion criteria, 18 (81.8%) were educational, and four (18.2%) were product promotional videos. When pairwise comparisons were made, the coverage score of open aspiration videos was higher for educational videos than for product promotion videos (P < .005). Useful videos had higher reliability and quality scores than misleading videos (P < .05). In addition, the reliability and quality scores of videos uploaded by official institutions were significantly higher than those of videos uploaded by individual users (P < .05). This study found that the majority of endotracheal tube aspiration training videos reviewed in the study were published by individual users, and a significant proportion of these videos had low levels of reliability and quality.

"Does My Kid Have an Ear Infection?" An Analysis of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media Videos on TikTok

INTRODUCTION

With the rise of social media, online platforms have become a common way to access healthcare information. This study examines the quality of pediatric acute otitis media (AOM) videos on TikTok, a popular short-form video social media platform.

METHODS

A TikTok search was conducted between 8/18 and 8/19/2023 using pediatric AOM hashtags: #pediatric acute otitis media management, #kid ear infections remedy, #child ear infections treatment, and #kid ear infection. Data collected include number of views/shares per day, uploader type (nonmedical influencer, lay individual, and medical professional), and content categories. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Material (PEMAT-AV) and DISCERN questionnaire measured understandability, actionability, and quality of videos. Multivariable linear regression models were used (significance set at ≤0.05).

RESULTS

Of 166 videos, 38.6% (64) of uploaders were medical professionals, and 32.5% (54) were nonmedical influencers. Nonmedical influencer videos were viewed and shared significantly more than those by medical professionals (p < 0.05). Controlling for covariates, physicians were more likely to produce more beneficial and higher quality videos as compared with nonmedical influencers (β = 2.4 and 1.3, p < 0.01, respectively). However, physicians did not have significantly different ratings for understandability compared with nonmedical influencers (β = 0.45, p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION

AOM content on TikTok is often geared toward caretakers of symptomatic children. Although physician-created AOM content was significantly higher quality, these videos reached a statistically smaller audience than those from nonmedical influencers. Addressing misinformation on social media platforms requires physicians to reach larger audiences by producing more actionable and understandable content.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 134:5184-5192, 2024.

The Assessment of TikTok as a Source of Quality Health Information on Human Papillomavirus: A Content Analysis

Background Various studies have evaluated the quality of health-related information on TikTok (ByteDance Ltd., Beijing, China), including topics such as COVID-19, diabetes, varicoceles, bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, and others. However, there is a paucity of data on studies that examined TikTok as a source of quality health information on human papillomavirus (HPV). This study, therefore, evaluated the quality of health information on HPV on TikTok. Methods The terms "HPV" and "human papillomavirus" were searched on TikTok on a single day in August 2024, and 200 videos were retrieved. Relevant user metrics were collected for each video, including the number of likes, shares, and followers, the video length, and the uploader type. Two independent raters assessed each video regarding the completeness of six types of content (the definition of HPV, symptoms, risk factors, evaluation, management, and outcomes). Then, the two raters independently assessed the quality of information in the videos using the DISCERN instrument. Results Sixty-nine videos met inclusion criteria; 11 were created by general users, 44 by healthcare professionals, and 14 by organizations. Videos uploaded by general users and health professionals have a longer duration (p < 0.001) and more likes (p = 0.048) than those uploaded by organizations. More than 60% of the videos contained little or no content on the HPV content assessed. Although the reliability and quality of treatment choices were higher among videos uploaded by healthcare professionals, the overall quality of HPV health information using the DISCERN instrument was "very poor" (24.2 (±6.92)). Conclusions The overall quality of HPV videos uploaded on TikTok is very poor and not acceptable, thus failing to satisfy public health needs. Healthcare professionals must enhance their social media presence, produce reliable and substantive material, and collaborate with social media platforms and high-engagement accounts to facilitate users' access to high-quality data. TikTok users must recognize that material regarding HPV may lack medical accuracy and should consistently consult healthcare providers for medical guidance.

Choosing the Correct Guide Video on Central Venous Catheter Placement From YouTube

Objective Proper preparation is necessary before performing certain procedures on a patient. Recently, videos created using social media content have been used as a preparation method. This has become particularly important in medical education since the COVID-19 pandemic. Central venous catheter placement is an important procedure performed in critically ill patients. This study assessed the quality of videos about central venous catheter placement available on YouTube. Methods A search was conducted on YouTube with the keyword "central venous catheter placement" on June 1, 2024. The review process involved two independent medical experts who comprehensively assessed the relevance and content of each video. To assess the quality of the videos, the DISCERN score, mDISCERN score, Global Quality Score (GQS), and American Medical Association Journal (JAMA) rating scale were used as evaluation tools. Results Top 41 English-language videos deemed most relevant were evaluated, each with over 25,000 views. Analysis of the video sources revealed that 36.6% of the videos were uploaded by doctors. Moreover, 87.8% of the videos were audio narrations accompanied by real patients or mannequins, and the remaining videos comprised audio narration with animated images. The mean JAMA score of the videos was 1.73, the mean mDISCERN score was 2.66, the mean DISCERN score was 40.46, and the mean GQS score was 3.8. A statistically significant difference was observed between the mDISCERN scores of videos containing real visual content and those containing animated visual content (p = 0.038). Moreover, the same two groups also exhibited higher quality scores in the GQS (p = 0.029). Conclusion The quality of information related to central venous catheter placement on YouTube is highly variable. Specifically, videos that provide valuable information and those that have the potential to mislead viewers do not have a noticeable difference in terms of views and popularity. For a medical practitioner or physician seeking reliable information, a useful and safe approach is preferring videos uploaded by medical professionals. It is important to prioritize the professional identity of the content creator rather than the video's popularity or the number of comments it has received.

TikTok and Bilibili as health information sources on gastroesophageal reflux disease: an assessment of content and its quality

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a global chronic disease. Short video platforms make it easy for patients with GERD to obtain medical information. However, the quality of information from these videos remains uncertain. This study aimed to systematically assess videos related to GERD on TikTok and Bilibili. We conducted a search and gathered 241 Chinese videos related to GERD and recorded the essential information. Two independent evaluators assessed each video based on the completeness of six components of the GERD guidelines, and assessed the quality and reliability of the information in the videos using recognition tools. Finally, videos from different sources were compared. The uploaders of most videos were medical professionals (86.7%, n = 209). The content was mainly about symptoms and treatment. The quality of the videos information varied depending on the sources. Among videos posted on Bilibili, those posted by medical professionals had a lower content score for definition (P < 0.001). Videos produced by non-gastroenterologists had the highest mean modified DISCERN. (The DISCERN scoring tool was initially created for assessing written publications, but nowadays, it is frequently leveraged for appraising various health-related videos. Details can be found in the text) quality of the videos information was acceptable; however, the content varied significantly depending on the type of source used. Videos with broad content should be carefully screened to meet more needs.

The reliability and quality of online patient education videos for vestibular schwannoma

BACKGROUND

A recent trend of looking for health-related conditions on the Internet has been described, with up 70% of searchers stating that online sources have affected their medical decision-making. Patients with vestibular schwannomas (VS) use online sources, including videos, to seek information about treatment alternatives and outcomes and surgeons experience. Our study investigates the reliability and quality of VS-related online videos.

METHODS

In April 2020, a search was launched on YouTube for the key terms 'vestibular schwannoma,' 'acoustic neuroma,' 'eighth cranial nerve schwannoma,' and 'eighth cranial nerve neuroma.' Results were screened for possible inclusion. Three authors independently used the DISCERN instrument to evaluate the reliability and quality of the included videos. Factors possibly influencing popularity were investigated.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 6416 videos. 38 videos were included in the final analysis. The average DISCERN score was 2.76, indicating overall poor quality and reliability of information. Only 5% scored 4.0 or more (unbiased videos that offer evidence-supported information); 31% scored between 3.0 and 3.99, and 63% scored 2.99 or less. Videos describing symptoms or the patient's clinical presentation were slightly more popular than videos without these characteristics. Surgical videos (videos containing clips of surgical procedures) were significantly more popular than non-surgical videos (p = .024) despite being of similarly poor quality (DISCERN score 2.85 vs. 2.74, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Available patient educational videos for VS are of mixed quality and reliability: the authors describe the strengths and pitfalls of existing YouTube videos. Considering that VS is a pathology with multiple available management modalities, and that patients' decision-making is affected by the information available on the Internet, it is of great importance that good-quality informative material be released by medical, academic, or educational institutions.

The quality and reliability of short videos about thyroid nodules on BiliBili and TikTok: Cross-sectional study

Background

The detection rate of thyroid nodules has witnessed a significant surge in recent years, triggering heightened public apprehension. Short video platforms such as TikTok and BiliBili have showed tremendous potential in the dissemination of health information. There is a plethora of videos about thyroid nodules on TikTok and BiliBili, but the quality and reliability of videos concerning thyroid nodules remains unknown.

Methods

On December 3rd, 2023, the top 100 short videos related to thyroid nodules on BiliBili and TikTok were collected through a comprehensive search in Chinese. After extracting the basic information, the quality and reliability of each video was assessed by using the global quality score (GQS) and DISCERN score. Further, Spearman correlation analyses were applied to examine the correlation among video variables, GQS and DISCERN score.

Results

Compared to BiliBili, TikTok exhibits greater popularity, as evidenced by higher counts of likes (P = 0.021), comments (P = 0.008) and shares (P = 0.017). The median (interquartile range) scores of GQS and DISCERN score were 3 (2-3) on TikTok while 2 (2-3) on BiliBili. Both reviewers exhibited good consistency in GQS and DISCERN score. Moreover, it was observed that the videos shared by thyroid specialists demonstrated higher scores both in GQS (P = 0.014) and DISCERN score (P = 0.022) than others on TikTok. Spearman correlation analysis revealed no significant correlation between video variables and the scores of GQS and DISCERN score.

Conclusions

The quality and reliability of thyroid nodules videos on BiliBili and TikTok were unsatisfactory. Notably, videos shared by thyroid specialists are more likely to exhibit superior quality and reliability. People should exercise caution when perusing short videos.

Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on Myocardial Infarction: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to assess the quality and reliability of the disease information available on YouTube (www.youtube.com) about "heart attacks" or myocardial infarctions, using a Global Quality Score (GQS) for quality, a DISCERN score for reliability, and a Video Power Index (VPI) for popularity.

METHODOLOGY

In this cross-sectional observational study, the YouTube videos were analyzed in terms of the type of uploader, content, and other factors. The GQS, DISCERN score, and Video Power Index (VPI) were utilized to assess the quality, reliability, and popularity of the information, respectively.

RESULTS

The majority of the videos (78.44%) were uploaded over a year ago. Only 33.34% and 7.84% were uploaded by doctors and healthcare organizations, respectively. Around 72.55% of the videos contained information about symptoms, 66.67% discussed the causes, 52.94% covered treatment, and 47.06% focused on prevention. Additionally, 41.18% provided details on investigations, while only 19.61% touched upon mortality. Patient-created videos accounted for 19.61% of the content, and 15.69% of the videos included promotional material.

CONCLUSION

The main outcome of our study indicates that the YouTube videos examined regarding myocardial infarctions exhibit high-quality content, as supported by a higher average GQS score. The consistent quality of information discovered in our study suggests that YouTube can serve as an additional platform for sharing knowledge and educating individuals about this important health condition. By raising awareness and delivering accurate information, these videos can help in early detection, prevention, and better outcomes for individuals who are at risk of experiencing a myocardial infarction.

Study on the Quality, Relevance, and Comparability of YouTube Videos Expressing Stroke and Its Consequences From Various Sources

Background and objective Stroke-related deaths have been one of the major causes of death worldwide due to its rising risk factors. As a result, several people rely on YouTube as a great source of information on stroke without knowing the genuineness of the content. This study aims to assess the quality and reliability of the information on stroke uploaded on the YouTube platform using the Global Quality score (GQS) and DISCERN score (DS), respectively. Methodology A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in April 2023. Stroke-related keywords were used to search for videos on YouTube. Videos that met inclusion criteria were evaluated for baseline characteristics (likes, comments, views, duration of video, time since posted, and uploader type) and type of information in the video about stroke (symptoms, etiology, treatment, and other parameters). These videos were then evaluated for quality and reliability of information using GQS and DS, respectively. Results After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and removing the duplicates, 73 YouTube videos were selected. The videos had a total number of 23,927,445 views, 385,324 likes, and 31,927 comments. Maximum videos were uploaded by hospitals (25, 34.2%). Several videos described the symptoms (54, 73.97%), treatment (50, 68.49%), and etiology (49, 67.12%) of stroke. The reach of videos measured by the Video Power Index (VPI) was highest for videos uploaded by healthcare organizations (mean VPI = 120.11). There was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) in the quality (GQS score) and reliability (DS) of videos uploaded by doctors, hospitals, healthcare organizations, and news channels.  Conclusions YouTube can become an important source to disseminate information about health-related conditions like stroke if the videos uploaded are of high quality (GQS score) and reliable (DS).

Douyin as a source of information and education on humeral supracondylar fracture of children during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chinese Mainland: An observational study

We aimed to investigate whether Douyin videos on pediatric humeral supracondylar fractures could be a useful source during the COVID-19 pandemic. A search was conducted using the term "humeral supracondylar fracture of children" on Douyin. The top 100 videos were selected based on view count. 74 was the final analysis, after excluding 26 videos for various reasons. First, the videos were classified into medical and the non-medical groups based on authorship. The medical team videos were about explanations or detailed surgical procedures directly related to child's fracture. There were also non-medical videos, mostly about personal experiences and other things. The videos were then also divided into 2 groups abased on the year of COVID-19 pandemic. The number of views, content type, video duration and number of likes about the video were analyzed. Among the 74 videos included in this study, had a total of 19,647,988 views (median 205,129, range 7874-1,495,004). Compared to the medical group, the non-medical group had more views (P = .004), likes (P = .000), view ratio (P = .019), and video power index (P = .024). During the COVID-19 pandemic, views (P = .033), view ratio (P = .006), and video power index (P = .043) also increased. Douyin has been a valuable source of health information for patients during COVID-19 pandemic regarding the occurrence of humeral supracondylar fracture in children. Medical professionals and institutions should upload credible, informative videos and clear, high-quality, scientifically reviewed surgical footage of children with humeral supracondylar fracture. And the videos uploaded by medical professionals and filtered by Douyin's staff appear to be necessary.

Radionuclide Therapy Videos on YouTube as An Educational Material: Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Changed the Quality, Usefulness, and Interaction Features

Introduction

Current treatment approach aims to achieve greater efficacy with fewer side effects, by targeted cancer therapy as much as possible. Radionuclide therapy is a modality that uses cancer theranostics and is increasingly applied for various cancers as a targeted therapy. YouTube is a preferred tool for obtaining medical information from the internet. This study aims to determine the content quality, level of interaction and usefulness as education material of radionuclide therapy YouTube videos and to reveal the impact of the COVID-19 process on these parameters.

Materials and Methods

The keywords were searched on YouTube on August 25, 2018, and May 10, 2021. After removing duplicate and excluded videos, all remaining videos were scored and coded.

Results

Majority of the videos were useful educational material. Most of them were high quality. Popularity markers were unrelated to quality level. After COVID, the power index of videos with high JAMA scores increased. The COVID-19 pandemic did not have a negative effect on video features; the quality of the content increased even more after the pandemic.

Conclusion

Radionuclide therapy YouTube videos have high-quality content and provide useful education material. The popularity is independent of the content quality. During the pandemic, video quality and usefulness characteristics did not change, while the visibility is increased. We consider YouTube to be an appropriate educational material for patients and healthcare professionals to gain basic knowledge of radionuclide therapy. The Covıd-19 pandemic highlighted the power of radionuclide therapy YouTube videos as an educational material.

Reliability of YouTube videos on robotic spine surgery for patient education

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgical systems developed to improve spine surgery accuracy. Studies have found significant reductions in screw revisions and radiation exposure with robotic assistance compared with open surgery. YouTube is the largest online video platform for medical education. Therefore, there is a need for the continuous critical assessment of healthcare-related YouTube videos. Our objective is to assess the reliability of YouTube videos on robotic spine surgery for patient education.

METHODS

In April of 2022, YouTube was queried for the following keywords: "Robotic Spine Surgery". The "Relevance-Based Ranking" filter was applied, and the first 3 result pages were considered. Videos had to be uploaded by universities or hospitals and be in the English. Three independent healthcare personnel evaluated the videos' education quality using the DISCERN tool.

RESULTS

Our study found that 33 % of videos analyzed scored above a 3 on the DISCERN scoring scale (considered a ''good" video), with overall mean DISCERN score of 2.8 ± 1.3 (SD). The duration of videos was significantly different between the two groups (Good = 16 min ± 21 vs Unhelpful = 4 min ± 4, p = 0.01). In the helpful group, other characteristics were number of views (16331 ± 31308), likes (88 ± 168) and dislikes (5 ± 8). No statistically significant differences were observed compared to the unhelpful group: number of views (6515 ± 9074; P = 0.20), likes (39 ± 55; P = 0.21) and dislikes (3 ± 4; P = 0.33).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that YouTube videos on robotic spine surgery lack accuracy and have poor educational value. There should be increased institutional oversight to combat the spread of misinformation.

A systematic review of the available literature on the use of social media in brain tumor

Purpose

The use of social media is one of the new technological options that has been recommended as a potential new strategy for delivering high-quality, high-value cancer prevention and management services. Despite the increasing use of social media, little research has been done on the use of social media in brain tumors. Therefore, this systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive review of the use of social media in brain tumor research.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science from inception to August 1, 2022. English full-text articles evaluating social media use, benefit or content in brain tumor were considered.

Findings

Sixteen documents satisfied the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Most of the included studies (n = 11/16) were conducted and published by researchers in the USA. In terms of social media platform, most studies focused on Twitter (8/16, 50%) and YouTube (8/16, 50%), followed by Facebook (6/16, 37.5%) and Instagram (4/16, 25%). Most studies (n = 7/12) analyzed the content of brain tumor information provided on social media, followed by patients’ use of social media (n = 3/12) and the quality of information on social media (n = 3/12). The other three articles also examined patient recruitment, crowdfunding and caregiver use of social media.

Practical implications

By identifying the use, benefits and content of social media platforms in different settings, patients, clinicians and policymakers can better benefit from harnessing the power of social media in different ways, leading to improved health-care services.

Originality/value

To the authors knowledge, this is the first study to systematically examine social media use, benefits and content status in brain tumors.

Analysis of the quality and reliability of trifocal intraocular lens videos on YouTube

OBJECTIVE

This study analyzed the quality and reliability of videos on YouTube as educational resources on trifocal intraocular lenses (IOL).

METHODS

This study is a retrospective, cross-sectional and record-based study. An online YouTube search was performed using the terms "trifocal lens implants" and "trifocal IOL," and a total of 229 videos were recorded. Eighty-six videos that met the study criteria were included. All videos were evaluated with DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and Global Quality Score (GQS) scores.

RESULTS

The mean DISCERN, JAMA, and GQS scores were 37.79±11.92, 2.01±0.87, and 2.17±1.01, respectively. Of all the videos, 39 (45%) were uploaded by physicians, and 47 (55%) were uploaded by non-physicians. While the length of the videos (length) was significantly greater in the physician group (P=0.02), the age of the videos (age) was significantly higher in the non-physician group (P=0.02). However, the differences between the two groups in terms of other general characteristics, DISCERN, JAMA and GQS scores were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Our finding suggests that trifocal IOL-related YouTube™ videos are of low quality and reliability, thus inadequate for patient information.

Social media in health communication: A literature review of information quality

BACKGROUND

Social media is used in health communication by individuals, health professionals, disease centres and other health regulatory bodies. However, varying degrees of information quality are churned out daily on social media. This review is concerned with the quality of Social Media Health Information (SMHI).

OBJECTIVE

The review sought to understand how SMHI quality issues have been framed and addressed in the literature. Health topics, users and social media platforms that have raised health information quality concerns are reviewed. The review also looked at the suitability of existing criteria and instruments used in evaluating SMHI and identified gaps for future research.

METHOD

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and the forward chaining strategy were used in the document search. Data were sourced according to inclusion criteria from five academic databases, namely Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed and MEDLINE.

RESULTS

A total of 93 articles published between 2000 and 2019 were used in the review. The review revealed a worrying trend of health content and communication on social media, especially of cancer, dental care and diabetes information on YouTube. The review further discovered that the Journal of the American Medical Association, the DISCERN and the Health on the Net Foundation, which were designed before the advent of social media, continue to be used as quality evaluation instruments for SMHI, even though technical and user characteristics of social media differ from traditional portals such as websites.

CONCLUSION

The study synthesises varied opinions on SMHI quality in the literature and recommends that future research proposes quality evaluation criteria and instruments specifically for SMHI.

YouTube as a source of patient information for pterygium surgery

Background

Patients use the YouTube platform to get information about pterygium surgery, and this affects the treatment decisions of the patients.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality and reliability of YouTube videos as educational resources about pterygium surgery.

Design

This is a register-based retrospective study.

Methods

This was a retrospective, record-based study. A YouTube search was performed using the terms 'pterygium surgery' and 'pterygium eye surgery', resulting in the evaluation of a total of 200 videos. In the end, 122 English-language videos about pterygium surgery were recruited to study. All videos were rated with the DISCERN, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and the Global Quality Score (GQS) systems.

Results

The mean DISCERN, JAMA, and GQS values were 38.9 ± 10.9, 1.8 ± 0.8, and 2.2 ± 1, respectively. The YouTube videos about pterygium surgery had been uploaded by a physician in 63 (51.6%) and non-physicians in 59 (48.4%) cases. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of general characteristics and scores.

Conclusions

Our results show that YouTube videos about pterygium surgery have low quality and credibility and are not sufficient in terms of providing patient information.

Registration

Not applicable.

Assessment of videos related to lung nodules in China

Background

With the popularization of mobile phones and the development of the Internet, many patients use social media platforms to seek health information. Currently, TikTok, iQiyi, Bilibili, and Weibo are the most popular video platforms in China. Therefore, based on the above facts, this study estimated the quality of lung nodule videos taken in China using these platforms.

Methods

The term “lung nodule” was searched on these platforms. Then, the first 30 videos were selected. Subsequently, some videos were excluded after they had been reviewed and analyzed, after which information on the features and sources of these videos was finally assessed using DISCERN, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Benchmark Criteria, and the Hexagonal Radar Schema. Analysis was performed according to different groups.

Results

101 videos were included in this study. According to the different sources, although most videos were from physicians (71.3%), comprising those with shorter durations; faster updates; and more likes, comments, and shares; no significant difference in the scores were obtained. Moreover, regarding the different platforms, while Weibo had the highest update, TikTok had more likes, comments, and shares. Investigations also revealed that while score differences were recorded, most videos were rated “very poor” and “poor.” Besides, hexagonal radar charts showed a severe deficiency of video information.

Conclusions

Although the quality of most videos on the understudied social media platforms was poor, these platforms have huge potential. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using the platforms as information sources about lung nodules, and a better review and push system is needed.

Analysis of Internet-Based Search Patterns Utilized by Glioma Patients as Information Source

The aim of this study is to assess the Internet usage pattern amongst glioma patients and to characterize its impact in their decision-making and clinical interactions. Glioma patients attending a tertiary cancer center between June and December 2019 were invited to participate in this study. A 26-item survey consisting of closed and open-ended questions was distributed with a unique identifier. Quantitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics using SPSS Statistical package, and qualitative data with grounded theory approach. Thirty-two patients completed the survey. Demographics varied in age, time since diagnosis, glioma type, and level of education. Eighty-one percent were identified as "Internet users" who sought online glioma information. Google was the most popular search engine (96%), with "glioma" being the most frequent search term. The selection of websites often relied on perceived credibility and top search hits. The most searched topic was prognosis (73%). The majority of patients found that online information was easy to understand, and this did not vary significantly amongst age groups. Website quality was always assessed by 60% of patients. Only 62% patients found the Internet a useful resource, and 70% patients found it facilitated their understanding. Most patients discussed their Internet findings with a physician, largely regarding concerns about reliability. There is variable glioma information available online. Patients with glioma use the Internet as a resource, with variable impact on their interactions and decision-making. This information can be used by physicians, educators, and website developers to support glioma patients' needs.

Dynamics of Social Media Popularity of “Do It Yourself” Orthodontic Aligners: A YouTube Case Study

Objective

To have an understanding of the fact how the popularity of “do it yourself” (DIY) videos available on YouTube correlate with authorship, content, quality, reliability, and how they appeal to and influence the customers.

Materials and Methods

A new YouTube account was created, this was followed by a determination of the most commonly used keywords regarding DIY aligners by using “Google Trends.” The keywords were used to search the YouTube website. A total of 112 videos were assessed for various parameters, such as completeness of the content, reliability using a modified version of the DISCERN tool, and quality using a Global Quality Score (GQS). Out of 112 videos, 26 were rejected based on their relevance, duplication, videos without audio, and video language. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to study the relationship between the variables, authorship, popularity, and recommendations.

Results

The majority of the videos were uploaded by the laypeople (43%), followed by DIY aligner companies (38%), and dentists and orthodontists (16%). The content for most of the videos was poor (82%), with DISCERN reliability score of zero (65%), and GQS of 1 and 2 (poor to generally poor quality). The view of uploaded videos, view rate, and likes was in proportion to the quality of the videos, their popularity, and reliability. Further authors with a financial interest and poor quality, content, and less reliability of the videos usually recommended the DIY aligners. The reduced cost was one of the important factors for the customers to consider DIY aligner treatment.

Conclusion

YouTube videos on DIY aligners should not be considered a reliable source for the public in general who are looking for orthodontic treatment for correction of their dentofacial irregularities. The dental professional bodies and orthodontists should use social media platforms (YouTube) to increase awareness about the DIY aligners among the public.

YouTube as a source of information and education on endometriosis

Many patients seek information online, including on social media, regarding various health topics. This study aimed to investigate whether YouTube videos on endometriosis could be a useful source for the general population, surgical trainees, and specialists. A YouTube search was conducted on December 26, 2021, using the search terms "endometriosis," "endometrioma," and "endometriotic cyst." Videos were sorted by view count, and the 100 videos with the highest view counts were chosen. After excluding 48 videos for various reasons, 52 were included in the final analysis. The number of views, duration, likes and dislikes, content type, and source of each video were recorded. We referred to a previous study to evaluate video quality. The 52 videos related to endometriosis had a total of 35,220,141 views (median 233,688, range 48,874-10,452,366). Based on authorship, the videos were categorized into videos uploaded by the medical group and the nonmedical group. The medical group mainly uploaded videos directly related to endometriosis, such as explanations or detailed surgical procedures for endometriosis (26/27, 96%), whereas the nonmedical group mainly uploaded videos about personal experiences and others (24/25, 96%; P <.001). Evaluating the score by each type of content, videos containing personal experiences (median score 6, range 3-10) scored significantly lower than videos containing other content such as explanations of the disease (median score 14, range 7-18; P < .001) and surgical procedures (median score 9, range 5-17; P < .001). Analysis according to the source, the number of views and video power index was significantly higher in the videos uploaded by the nonmedical group (P < .05). YouTube is currently not an appropriate source for patients to gain information on endometriosis. Credible videos with accurate information and clear, high-quality operative clips with proper scientific commentary should be uploaded by medical professionals and medical institutions to critically and rapidly appraise the quality of online video-disseminated information on endometriosis. In addition, advanced filtering using categories by YouTube's staff appears to be necessary.

Assessment of the Medical Reliability of Videos on Social Media: Detailed Analysis of the Quality and Usability of Four Social Media Platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube)

Introduction: In recent years, the internet and social media have become the primary source for patients to research their medical conditions. Given the billions of links that result from research, it has become increasingly important how medically high quality the priorities of the search algorithms are. This study aims to examine the medical quality of videos on social media. Material and Method: A new Gmail account was never used, and Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube accounts were opened. The word “knee replacement” was searched via social media. The video duration, daily views, total views, number of likes, source, and shared content were recorded. The parameters were statistically evaluated using the scales JAMA, GQS, DISCERN, and VPI to measure the quality of the medical posts. Results: Correlations were found between JAMA, GQS, and DISCERN. No correlation between the VPI scales with other scales was found. It was found that the promotional content in videos other than Instagram was very high (56–70%). Academics and healthcare workers produced greater quality content than other groups. There is a clear dominance of healthcare practitioners on Instagram. The most shared content was informative, depending on the content. The most frequent users were alternative health practitioners. While YouTube had the highest JAMA, GQC, and DISCERN (2.98, 3.18, 37.5) scores, the lowest VPI (0.761) score was found. Discussion and Conclusions: It has been shown that Instagram and Twitter are not the right places to share videos with medical content. However, everyone should remember that Instagram is the best place to share short but popular videos. YouTube and Facebook are available resources to share videos of better medical quality with a higher score than others. We can say that the most reliable medical sources are Facebook and YouTube videos of physicians and medical staff.

Assessment of freely available online videos of cardiac electrophysiological procedures from a shared decision-making perspective

Background

Physicians recommend electrophysiological (EP) procedures to patients with arrhythmic risk. This involves shared decision-making (SDM). Patients increasingly search for additional information online. Freely available online videos are an attractive source.

Objective

We assessed freely available online videos for EP procedures from the perspective of SDM to determine if such videos can be shared with patients for SDM.

Methods

We searched for freely available online videos related to 6 common EP procedures limited to English language and duration between 1 and 10 minutes using Google and Bing. Data collected included date and source of upload, number of hits, and duration. Videos were assessed systematically for understandability, actionability (PEMAT tool), relatability, teamwork, and mention of risk.

Results

A total of 78 videos met our inclusion criteria, out of 960 video links. Overall inter-rater agreement was moderate to good. Video upload dates spanned 12 years and number of hits ranged from 87 to 594,000. The majority of videos (63%) were produced by health care systems or academic institutions. For all 78 videos the mean total PEMAT tool score was 48.6%. Thirty-five percent of videos showed a patient engaged in a conversation with the physician or a team member; 41% of videos showed other team members. The potential for complications was mentioned in 10%.

Conclusion

The majority of online, freely available videos for common EP procedures lack features useful for SDM and may not be helpful for sharing with patients from that perspective. It is possible to create high-quality videos that can facilitate SDM.

A Multi-Modal Convolutional Neural Network Model for Intelligent Analysis of the Influence of Music Genres on Children’s Emotions

The influence of music genres on children's emotional intelligence is one of the hot topics in the field of multi-modal emotion research. How to fuse multi-modal information has an important impact on children's emotional analysis. Most of the current research is based on transformer, in which the self-attention mechanism module is improved to achieve the fusion effect of multi-modal information. However, it is difficult for these methods to effectively capture the effective information of different modalities. Therefore, for the task of the influence of music genres on children's emotions, this paper proposes a transformer-based multi-modal convolutional neural network. The first is to use the BiLSTM sub-network model to extract the video and audio features and use the BERT sub-network to extract the text features. Secondly, this paper uses the improved transformer cross-modal fusion module to effectively fuse different types of modal information. Finally, the transformer module is used to judge the information of different modalities and analyze the emotion from the multi-modal information. At the same time, a large number of experiments prove that the model based on multi-modal convolutional neural network proposed in this paper surpasses other methods in prediction accuracy and effectively improves the accuracy of sentiment classification tasks.

Does YouTube Provide Qualified Patient Education Videos About Atrial Fibrillation?

Objective

Patients utilize the internet as a pathway to acquire knowledge of specific diseases. However, there are limited oversight and review mechanisms to ensure the authenticity of online information. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of video-based resources used to obtain information about atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Multiple AF-specific keywords were used to perform a systematic search of YouTube. Two independent reviewers reviewed the top 50 results of each keyword search. To record data, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) score, modified DISCERN score, AF-specific score (AFSS), and essential score (Escore) were used. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for intergroup comparisons.

Results

A total of 74 videos that met the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. In terms of video quality, 68% were poor, 19% were moderate, and 13% were exceptional. Videos submitted by publishers with a medical background were much less popular (p < 0.05) than those submitted by publishers without a medical background. The video quality did not differ among those included in this study.

Conclusions

Some videos on YouTube that are of real value are not as popular as those with low-quality content submitted by news agencies/media publishers. Furthermore, videos submitted by those with a medical background do not receive as much attention as others. It is important to acknowledge that video platforms should establish content and quality auditing mechanisms for videos. Furthermore, publishers should ensure that viewers receive accurate and complete knowledge and use more concise and accessible images or animations that are tailored to the audience.

Health Literacy and Web-Based Audiovisual Multimedia in Pituitary and Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery

Introduction The internet presents a rich milieu of multimedia options relating to pituitary and endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS). Misinformation can create discordance between patient and provider expectations. The purpose of this study is to analyze the understandability and actionability of available ESBS and pituitary surgery audiovisual information on YouTube and Google.

Methods The top 50 videos generated by searching “pituitary surgery/transsphenoidal surgery” and “endoscopic skull base surgery” in both YouTube and Google were sorted by relevance. Two independent reviewers evaluated each for understandability and actionability based on the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for audiovisual material (PEMAT-A/V). Source, authorship, audience, and education/advertisement variables were collected. Chi-square test followed by univariate and multivariate regression analyses assessed the association between these variables and quality.

Results A total of 85 videos (52 YouTube and 33 Google) met inclusion criteria for analysis. There was no significant difference in the presence of the aforementioned variables between YouTube and Google (p < 0.05). Also, 72% of videos targeted patients and 28% targeted surgeons. Academic institutions uploaded 58% of videos. Surgeon-targeted videos were more educational (p = 0.01) and patient-targeted videos involved more advertisement (p = 0.01). Understandability and actionability scores were below the 70% threshold for both YouTube (65 ± 15, 38 ± 33, p = 0.65) and Google (66 ± 12, 38 ± 26, p = 0.94). Patient-targeted videos (p = 0.002) were more understandable, while surgeon- (p < 0.001) and education-focused videos (p < 0.001) were more actionable.

Conclusion Understandability and actionability of YouTube and Google audiovisual patient information on ESBS and pituitary surgery is poor. Consideration should be given to the formation of a standardized patient information resource.

Epidural Catheterization in Obstetrics: A Checklist-Based Video Assessment of Free Available Video Material

Epidural catheterization has become an indispensable part of modern pain therapy, for example, in obstetrics. Learning how to master this skill is an important competency. Videos are among the information sources with the highest information content for learning such skills. The present study aims to analyze videos regarding epidural catheter placement provided on the YouTube platform based on a validated checklist. An expert workshop selected crucial items for learning epidural catheterization in obstetrics. Items were identified and optimized in a five-step testing process. Using this checklist, videos from YouTube were evaluated by eleven health care professionals. Sixteen videos were identified and analyzed. Concerning the catheterization-specific part of the checklist, only two videos showed satisfactory quality. In the didactic part, eleven out of 21 items reached a mean score >50% of the points. Regarding interrater reliability, the catheterization-specific checklist was shown to be substantial (Fleiss’ kappa = 0.610), and the didactic part was shown to be fair (Fleiss’ kappa = 0.401). Overall, standard monitoring and appropriate aseptic technique were followed in only 42% and 49% for the procedure. There was a significant correlation between the runtime and the content quality (p < 0.001). No correlation could be found in terms of platform rating parameters. The video quality varied highly in terms of the requirements of this practical skill. The majority appear unsuitable for self-study due to serious errors and deficiencies regarding patient safety. However, there is no quality control on free platforms. Accordingly, it is difficult to identify suitable videos for educational purposes.

YouTube as a Source of Patient Information for Meningiomas: A Content Quality and Audience Engagement Analysis

YouTube (YT) has become a popular health information reservoir. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the content and quality of YT videos as a source of patient information for meningiomas. A YT search was conducted for the following terms: “meningioma”, “meningiomas”, “meningeal tumor”, and “psammoma”. A total of 119 videos were examined by five independent raters, using validated quality criteria, including the Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN), the Journal of the American Medical Association instrument (JAMA), and the Global Quality Score (GQS). The mean DISCERN score was 35.6 points, while the mean GQS and JAMA scores were 2.4 and 1.8, respectively. The majority of the videos were produced in the United States (37.82%). Moreover, 47.9% of the evaluated videos were graded as “poor” and only 9.24% were “good”. Statistically higher scores in all three scoring systems were associated with the following information: tumor localization, clinical manifestations, indications for surgery, treatment options, risks, adjuvant therapies, results, follow up, diagrams, and those that featured a doctor as the speaker. Misleading information was presented in 35 productions. Our findings show that the overall quality of YT on the topic of meningiomas is defective, and requires further improvement and evaluation.

Assessment of the Quality and Reliability of Intragastric Balloon Videos on YouTube

PURPOSE

There is no mechanism to control the accuracy and quality of videos on YouTube. However, it is essential to evaluate the quality of videos on YouTube to prevent patients from accessing misleading information. The aim of this study was to assess the quality and reliability of the videos available on YouTube concerning intragastric balloon.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

YouTube was searched using the keywords "intragastric balloon" and "gastric balloon." A total of 158 videos were independently analyzed by two bariatric surgeons-endoscopists and were classified as reliable or non-reliable. Video demographics (view, view per day, like, dislike, comment) were analyzed according to the quality and source of the video. The video power index (VPI) was calculated for each video. The modified DISCERN and global quality scores (GQS) were used to rate the reliability and overall quality of the videos.

RESULTS

Of the included videos, 63.9% were described reliable and 36.1% as non-reliable. The median number of dislikes, comments, views, views per day, and video duration on YouTube did not significantly differ between the two reliability groups. The mean length of the videos, GQS and DISCERN scores, and the median number of likes were significantly higher in the reliable group. The highest median VPI value was determined for the videos uploaded by TV programs.

CONCLUSION

The number of reliable videos is higher than non-reliable about intragastric balloon on YouTube. However, the reliability and quality of the videos are generally low. The videos uploaded by TV programs are significantly more popular.

Assessment of the quality of information on treatment of keratoconus on YouTube

PURPOSE

To evaluate the reliability, quality and effectiveness of YouTube videos addressing treatment of keratoconus.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, cross-sectional and register-based study. A YouTube search was performed using the keyword treatment of keratoconus, and the first 100 videos that came out were included in the study. The numbers of views, likes, dislikes, comments, daily viewing rate (number of views per day), uploaded source (physicians, public or private institution, health channel or patients), country of origin, video type (patient experience, scholarly information), and described treatment technique (contact lens, corneal cross-linking, intrastromal corneal ring, topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy, keratoplasty) were evaluated for all videos. They were also evaluated regarding their DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), global quality score (GQS) and usefulness score by two independent ophthalmologists.

RESULTS

Of the top 100 videos, 83 videos met the criteria. The mean DISCERN, JAMA, GQS and usefulness score were 42.92 ± 18.14, 2.7 ± 0.73, 3.07 ± 1.25 and 2.99 ± 1.44, respectively. Of the 83 videos, 35(42.2%) had been uploaded by physicians, 19(22.9%) by patients, 15(18.1%) by health channel, and 14(16.9%) by institutions/private health institutions. In the correlation analysis, the four scoring systems showed a statistically significant and strong positive correlation with each other (p < 0.001). In addition, viewing rate DISCERN, GQS, usefulness scores, number of likes, dislikes and comments showed a statistically significant positive correlation.

CONCLUSION

The content of YouTube videos regarding treatment of keratoconus is of generally good quality and is educational for patients. Increasing the number of videos uploaded by healthcare professionals will increase the quality, reliability and informative features of the videos.

Assessing information on YouTube™ as a quality source for the treatment of varicoceles

Introduction:

YouTube™ has grown into one of the largest disseminators of health care information. We assessed the quality of information on varicoceles and their treatment, available on YouTube™.

Methods:

Using a YouTube™ search query with the keyword “varicocele,” the quality of the first 50, nonrepeat videos in English were assessed as a representative group for the topic. DISCERN and Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials (PEMAT-AV) standardized tools were utilized by three independent reviewers to grade the quality of these videos based on content, understandability, and actionability.

Results:

The average and median DISCERN score was 31.34 (±9.37) and 31 (interquartile range 25–35), respectively, indicating poor quality. The interrater reliability (IRR) scores ranged from 0.51 to 0.93, indicating fair to excellent reliability. The average PEMAT-AV understandability and actionability scores were 69.8% ±15.4% and 11.0% ±24.6%, respectively, indicating mostly understandable but poor actionability. The t-test results showed that international videos scored higher without statistical significance in the DISCERN or PEMAT-AV scores (P = 0.18, 0.59, and 0.20).

Conclusions:

The current quality of videos on YouTube™ on the topic of varicoceles is of poor quality due to a lack of a holistic approach in explaining the wide range of treatment options available. With the ease of access to produce and disseminate health information, there is a need to create high-quality videos on varicoceles that empower a patient to make an informed decision.

Evaluation of quality and educational effect of microsurgery videos on YouTube: a randomized controlled trial

Widespread use of smartphones and wireless internet have made YouTube an easily accessible educational modality. Many residents use YouTube to acquire knowledge regarding microsurgical techniques; however, its quality and effect has not been verified. We included 22 residents working in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at our institute. Using block randomization, seven were allocated to a textbook group (TG), eight to a free-searching group (FSG), and seven to a designated-video group (DVG). After reviewing textbooks, YouTube videos, or designated videos, respectively, each group performed microsurgical anastomosis using artificial vessels. The total procedure time, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS), operative errors, and degree of leakage were assessed by blinded evaluators. Self-confidence rates were also compared. The YouTube groups (FSG and DVG) performed better than the TG. Although procedure time was significantly longer in the DVG (p = .006), the performance of DVG was better than that of TG in all assessments (OSATS: p = .012; operative errors: p = .002; leakage: p = .010). FSG showed more operative errors (p = .004) and leakage (p = .007) compared to DVG, but had higher OSATS (p = .008) and fewer operative errors (p = .002) than TG. The post-intervention confidence rates were significantly higher in FSG and DVG compared to TG (p = .002 and p = .001, respectively). Although there are concerns regarding the reliability of YouTube videos, microsurgery videos on YouTube had positive effects on microsurgery practice. Therefore, YouTube may help to improve the microsurgical skills of residents. If a quality control system is introduced for YouTube videos, their educational effects may be enhanced.

TikTok as a Health Information Source: Assessment of the Quality of Information in Diabetes-Related Videos

Background

Diabetes has become one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, and many people living with diabetes use social media to seek health information. Recently, an emerging social media app, TikTok, has received much interest owing to its popularity among general health consumers. We notice that there are many videos about diabetes on TikTok. However, it remains unclear whether the information in these videos is of satisfactory quality.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the quality of the information in diabetes-related videos on TikTok.

Methods

We collected a sample of 199 diabetes-related videos in Chinese. The basic information presented in the videos was coded and analyzed. First, we identified the source of each video. Next, 2 independent raters assessed each video in terms of the completeness of six types of content (the definition of the disease, symptoms, risk factors, evaluation, management, and outcomes). Then, the 2 raters independently assessed the quality of information in the videos, using the DISCERN instrument.

Results

In regard to the sources of the videos, we found 6 distinct types of uploaders; these included 3 kinds of individual users (ie, health professionals, general users, and science communicators) and 3 types of organizational users (ie, news agencies, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit organizations). Regarding content, our results show that the videos were primarily about diabetes management and contained limited information on the definition of the disease, symptoms, risk factors, evaluation, and outcomes. The overall quality of the videos was acceptable, on average, although the quality of the information varied, depending on the sources. The videos created by nonprofit organizations had the highest information quality, while the videos contributed by for-profit organizations had the lowest information quality.

Conclusions

Although the overall quality of the information in the diabetes videos on TikTok is acceptable, TikTok might not fully meet the health information needs of patients with diabetes, and they should exercise caution when using TikTok as a source of diabetes-related information.

The Quality, Reliability, and Popularity of YouTube Education Videos for Vestibular Rehabilitation: A Cross-sectional Study

HYPOTHESIS

Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) education videos on YouTube are poor-quality and unreliable.

BACKGROUND

YouTube has become a health information source. Recent studies have determined that videos on YouTube contain misleading and inappropriate information for different medical conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess the quality and reliability of VR education videos.

METHODS

A search was performed using the keywords vertigo, vertigo treatment, vertigo exercise, and vestibular rehabilitation, on YouTube. The first 50 videos for each keyword were analyzed. Videos were divided into four groups according to the video source: Group 1: universities/occupational organizations, Group 2: medical ad/profit-oriented companies, Group 3: independent users, and Group 4: others (news/media/state institution). The quality and reliability of videos were evaluated regarding the modified DISCERN criteria, the modified Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria, and global quality scores (GQS).

RESULTS

Among the 200 videos analyzed, 103 were included. The main video source was medical ad/profit-oriented companies (60.2%). The mean modified DISCERN criteria score, the mean modified JAMA benchmark criteria score, and the mean GQS value of the videos were found as low (2.46 ± 1.37, 2.09 ± 1.23, and 2.67 ± 1.38, respectively). Videos uploaded by universities/occupational organizations (25.2%) had statistically significant higher modified DISCERN criteria scores, modified JAMA benchmark criteria scores, and GQS values compared with the other groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Online information about VR education on YouTube was of poor quality and unreliable. Expert vestibular providers should be aware of these inappropriate sources and educate patients regarding the poor-quality of videos and also aim to provide more quality and reliable sources of information.

[Development and validation of a checklist for evaluating videos for learning resuscitation measures]

BACKGROUND

Well-performed resuscitation measures can improve the outcome in the event of cardiovascular arrest. Medical students often use teaching videos to learn practical skills. Studies confirmed the often inadequate quality of the videos on resuscitation available on the Internet. An evaluation using a validated checklist based on the current guidelines has so far been lacking.

OBJECTIVE

The development and validation of a checklist for evaluating instructional videos on resuscitation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In an expert workshop, checklist items were formulated based on the current guidelines. The checklist was tested by emergency physicians in a 4-step review process. The evaluations were analyzed and the items adjusted and specified if necessary. After the review process was completed, the checklist was applied to 74 videos on the topic of resuscitation.

RESULTS

The checklist consists of 25 items in 4 categories (initial measures, chest compression, AED use, breathing), which are rated on a 3-level Likert scale. A total of 16 emergency doctors participated in the study and rated an average of 9.3 ± 5.7 videos each. The reviewers agreed in 65.1 ± 12.6% of the cases. The highest agreement was achieved in the subtopic AED, with the item "do not touch patients in shock" having the highest agreement. The items in the thoracic compression category were most often rated differently.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, a checklist for evaluating instructional videos for resuscitation was created and validated for German-speaking countries.

Guidelines for optimal utilization of social media for brain tumor stakeholders

OBJECTIVE

Effective use of social media (SM) by medical professionals is vital for better connections with patients and dissemination of evidence-based information. A study of SM utilization by different stakeholders in the brain tumor community may help determine guidelines for optimal use.

METHODS

Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube were searched by using the term "Brain Tumor." Platform-specific metrics were determined, including audience size, as a measure of popularity, and mean annual increase in audience size, as a measure of performance on SM. Accounts were categorized on the basis of apparent ownership and content, with as many as two qualitative themes assigned to each account. Correlations of content themes and posting behavior with popularity and performance metrics were assessed by using the Pearson's test.

RESULTS

Facebook (67 pages and 304,581 likes) was predominantly used by organizations (64% of pages). Top themes on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube were charity and fundraising (67% of pages), education and research (72% of accounts), and experience sharing and support seeking (48% of videos, 60% of views, and 82% of user engagement), respectively. On Facebook, only the presence of other concurrent platforms influenced a page's performance (rho = 0.59) and popularity (rho = 0.61) (p < 0.05). On Twitter, the number of monthly tweets (rho = 0.66) and media utilization (rho = 0.78) were significantly correlated with increased popularity and performance (both p < 0.05). Personal YouTube videos (30% of videos and 61% of views) with the theme of experience sharing and support seeking had the highest level of engagement (60% of views, 70% of comments, and 87% of likes).

CONCLUSIONS

Popularity and prevalence of qualitative themes differ among SM platforms. Thus, optimal audience engagement on each platform can be achieved with thematic considerations. Such considerations, along with optimal SM behavior such as media utilization and multiplatform presence, may help increase content popularity and thus increase community access to neurooncology content provided by medical professionals.

Metric Evaluation of Reliability and Transparency of the Videos About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery in the Online Platforms: Assessment of YouTube Videos' Content

Objective

To evaluate the quality and reliability of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery videos on YouTube.

Methods

A keyword set of “carpal tunnel syndrome surgery” was searched on YouTube. The DISCERN scoring system, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) scoring system, and Health on the Net (HON) ranking systems were used to evaluate the quality and reliability of the first 50 videos appeared in the search results. The characteristics of each video, such as the number of likes, dislikes and views, upload days, video length, and the uploader, were collected retrospectively. The relationships between the video quality and these factors were investigated statistically.

Results

All of the featured videos sorted were found to be of poor content (mean DISCERN score [n = 1.71 of 5], mean JAMA score [n = 1.76 of 4], mean HON score [n = 5.65 of 16]). Yet, DISCERN scores of the videos uploaded by medical centers were higher than that of the others (p = 0.022). No relationship was detected between the other variables and video quality.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals and organizations should be more cautious when recording and uploading a video to the online platforms. As those videos could reach a wide audience, their content should provide more information about possible complications of a treatment and other treatment modalities.

YouTube as a source of information for arteriovenous malformations: A content-quality and optimization analysis

AIM

YouTube (YT) is not only a source of entertainment but also, a popular source of medical knowledge. Our goal was to evaluate the quality of videos concerning arteriovenous malformations (AVM) available on YT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A YT search was conducted for the terms "Arteriovenous malformation", "AV malformations", "Intracranial AVM", "Cerebral AVM"," Brain AVM" and "Pial AVM." The first 70 videos for each search were evaluated and yielded 122 unique videos after the exclusion was applied. The videos were examined by two independent Raters using a validated quality criteria such as the Quality Criteria for Consumer Health Information (DISCERN), the Journal of the American Medical Association instrument (JAMA), and the Global Quality Score (GQS).

RESULTS

The mean DISCERN score was 30 out of 75 possible points, with an intraclass correlation coefficient for the absolute agreement of 0.98, indicating an excellent interrater reliability. Most videos were produced in the United States (51.6%) and were uploaded by educational channels. Videos had statistically higher DISCERN, JAMA, and GQS scores when they presented clear information, AVM symptoms, angioarchitecture, AVMs with concomitant aneurysms, risks of bleeding, Spetzler-Martin Grading, treatment information, treatment risks, treatment results, follow-up, diagrams, and a doctor as a speaker. Videos that featured animations observed higher popularity as indicated by the Video Power Index (VPI) and observed a higher DISCERN and GQS score. Videos with the overall highest VPI generated poor DISCERN scores.

CONCLUSIONS

YT does not provide high content quality medical information regarding AVMs and, in some cases, offer misleading information.

Educational quality of YouTube videos on musculoskeletal ultrasound

Introduction/objectives

A progressively growing number of rheumatologists have integrated musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) as a prized tool in their daily clinical practice over the past two decades. Lately, YouTube is often used by healthcare professionals as an educational tool. This study aimed to analyze the quality of educational information available on YouTube pertaining to MSUS.

Method

We performed a search using the keyword “musculoskeletal ultrasound” on YouTube in January 2021. Of the first 200 videos screened, 147 met the inclusion criteria. The quality and reliability of the videos were evaluated using the global quality score (GQS) and modified DISCERN score, and their popularity was assessed using the Video Power Index (VPI).

Results

Of the 147 videos evaluated, 58 (39.5%) were of high quality, 30 (20.4%) were of moderate quality, while 59 (40.1%) were of low quality. The modified DISCERN score and the duration of the videos were significantly higher in the high-quality videos than the moderate- and low-quality videos (p < 0.001 for all). The median number of views per day, likes, comments, and the popularity of the videos assessed with VPI were significantly higher in the high- and moderate-quality group compared to the low-quality videos (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.007, and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

The quality of YouTube videos as an educational source on MSUS is unsatisfactory. Professional organizations and physicians should consider creating more high-quality MSUS videos. YouTube should consider filtering out poor-quality videos in collaboration with experts in the field.

Key Points • Although rheumatologists are increasingly using ultrasound as an extension of their exam, accessing musculoskeletal ultrasound training is still facing some challenges. • YouTube is commonly used as an educational source by medical students and healthcare professionals. • Approximately 60% of the videos related to musculoskeletal ultrasound on YouTube revealed high and moderate quality, while the remaining 40% were of low quality and not suitable for medical education. • A filtering mechanism is required to improve the quality of YouTube content on MSUS.

Quality analysis of testicular cancer videos on YouTube

The aim of this study was to assess the content, reliability and quality of information regarding testicular cancer in YouTube videos. The search was performed by using term 'testicular cancer' on YouTube, and the first 168 videos were listed according to relevancy. Video features and source of upload were recorded. The quality, reliability and accuracy of the information were evaluated by two independent urologists using the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) score, the 5-point modified DISCERN tool and the Global Quality Score (GQS). A total number of 152 videos were analysed. The most common source of upload was talk show programmes/TV programmes (25.7%), and majority of the content was about (24.3%) symptoms and diagnosis options. The mean JAMA score, modified DISCERN score and GQS were 1.59, 2.13 and 2.61 respectively. These scores were significantly higher in videos that were uploaded by physicians/nonprofit physicians/professional organisations/universities (p < 0.001). There is a positive correlation between the video length, DISCERN, JAMA scores and GQS. YouTube is a widely used source of information and advice about testicular cancer, but much of the content is of poor quality.

Quality Evaluation of Visual Display Terminal Syndrome Videos Shared on YouTube

Visual display terminal syndrome is a health problem that occurs when an individual looks at a visual display terminal for a long time. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of YouTube videos on visual display terminal syndrome. YouTube was searched using the keywords "visual display terminal syndrome" and "a prolonged user of a computer or smartphone" on October 16, 2019. A total of 45 videos were evaluated using DISCERN and the Journal of the American Medical Association scoring systems. The variables extracted from the videos were the uploading agency; content; presentation format; days since upload; the number of views, likes, dislikes, and comments; and the video power index. The mean DISCERN and Journal of the American Medical Association scores were 35.64 and 3.08 points, respectively, indicating that the information on visual display terminal syndrome in YouTube videos was inaccurate and unreliable. The major reason for the low quality of the videos was that the sources of information presented in the videos were not provided. The DISCERN and Journal of the American Medical Association scores showed significant differences in the uploading agency and presentation format variables. Nurses must be familiar with evaluating the quality of videos presenting health information. Guidelines informing patients that YouTube might provide misinformation about health need to be developed.

Neuromodulation, Deep Brain Stimulation, and Spinal Cord Stimulation on YouTube: A Content-Quality Analysis of Search Terms

BACKGROUND

YouTube is one of the most widely accessed platforms for patients seeking information across all medical specialties. More than 50% of patients engage with online information before seeing a physician. There has been no qualitative analysis of neuromodulation content on YouTube.

METHODS

By evaluating the search interest of neuromodulation terms via Google Trends, the authors selected 3 search terms to assess on YouTube. For each term, the top 20 videos were selected, 10 sorting by view count and 10 by relevance. DISCERN criteria were used to evaluate each video. Statistical analysis was performed with R software to discover associations among video characteristics and DISCERN scores (DSs).

RESULTS

Neuromodulation, deep brain stimulation, and spinal cord stimulation terms were searched. There were 52 unique and 8 duplicate videos, which were excluded. The videos received 6,984,743 combined views (134,321 average). Neurosurgeons were the most common authors, producing 22 videos, followed by anesthesiologists with 10 videos. Statistical analysis showed that videos that were sponsored (DS 44.79 vs. 34.53; P < 0.011), had board-certified physicians (DS 42.88 vs. 31.25; P < 0.004), and had credentials of the video producer (DS 41.82 vs. 34.42; P < 0.044) were more likely to have higher DSs. Spinal cord stimulation videos had the lowest quality of the search terms (DS 30.9 vs. 39.2, 42.6; P < 0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Certain characteristics of YouTube videos are associated with higher quality. Video producers should aim to use these characteristics and follow DISCERN criteria when preparing online videos.

Glioblastoma: assessment of the readability and reliability of online information

INTRODUCTION

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) represents one of the most common and most aggressive forms of brain tumours with a poor prognosis. There is often uncertainty around diagnosis and prognosis amongst patients diagnosed with cancer. Most patients rely on internet to access health-related information. The aim of this study was to assess the readability and reliability of online information on GBM.

METHODS

The terms 'Glioblastoma' and 'GBM' were used to search Google and the first 50 websites identified were screened. For each website, the quality of each website was assessed using the DISCERN instrument, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria and the Health on the Net Foundation code certification (HON-code). The readability was assessed using the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRE), the Flesch-Kincaid grade level (FKGL) and the Gunning Fog Index (GFI). The relevant patient information by 4 International patient information websites were also assessed.

RESULTS

Following screening, 31 websites met the inclusion criteria with only four websites displaying the HON-code (12.9%). The median DISCERN score was 43 (range: 17-70) corresponding to 'fair' quality, and the median JAMA benchmark criteria score was 1. Display of the HON-code certificate or the publication date was associated with higher quality websites. The median FRE score corresponded to 'difficult' to read (34.4). The median GFI score (15.9) and FKGL score (13.3) corresponded to a 'college' level of education reading ability. The Cancer Australia online information was the most readable website while Cancer Research UK had the highest quality information.

CONCLUSION

The readability and reliability of online information relating to GBM is inadequate. Health professionals need to provide or guide patients to information that is both readable and reliable.

Evaluation of YouTube Video Content Related to the Management of Hypoglycemia

Objective

Hypoglycemia is a syndrome characterized by decreased blood glucose levels and can result in morbidity and mortality. Often, patients seek information about hypoglycemia from the Internet and especially YouTube. The objective of this study was to investigate the quality and reliability of the 50 most viewed videos related to hypoglycemia on YouTube.

Methods

The links of 50 videos that met the criteria were copied to spreadsheet software. Attributes of the uploaders, the content of the videos, their screening time, the date they were uploaded, the number of days since the upload date, the number of daily views, comments, likes, dislike, and video power indexes were recorded. The videos were assessed by two independent emergency specialists using DISCERN and global quality scales (GQS).

Results

Of the selection, 27 (54%) videos were uploaded by health channels, 11 (22%) by physicians, nine (18%) by hospital channels, and three (6%) by patients. Furthermore, 30 (60%) of these 50 videos were real-content videos and 20 (40%) were animations. The average DISCERN score given by the researchers to 50 videos was 3.72 ± 0.90 (min-max: 1-5) and the average GQS score was 3.65 ± 0.88. Mean video power index (VPI) value was determined as 92.64 ± 11. According to Pearson’s analysis, there was a good agreement between the two observers.

Conclusion

Videos uploaded by physicians were useful. However, health videos should only be uploaded by physicians. Uploading videos with content that the patients and their relatives can clearly understand is of paramount importance.

Reliability and quality of online patient education videos for lateral lumbar interbody fusion

OBJECTIVE

There is an increasing trend among patients and their families to seek medical knowledge on the internet. Patients undergoing surgical interventions, including lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF), often rely on online videos as a first source of knowledge to familiarize themselves with the procedure. In this study the authors sought to investigate the reliability and quality of LLIF-related online videos.

METHODS

In December 2018, the authors searched the YouTube platform using 3 search terms: lateral lumbar interbody fusion, LLIF surgery, and LLIF. The relevance-based ranking search option was used, and results from the first 3 pages were investigated. Only videos from universities, hospitals, and academic associations were included for final evaluation. By means of the DISCERN instrument, a validated measure of reliability and quality for online patient education resources, 3 authors of the present study independently evaluated the quality of information.

RESULTS

In total, 296 videos were identified by using the 3 search terms. Ten videos met inclusion criteria and were further evaluated. The average (± SD) DISCERN video quality assessment score for these 10 videos was 3.42 ± 0.16. Two videos (20%) had an average score above 4, corresponding to a high-quality source of information. Of the remaining 8 videos, 6 (60%) scored moderately, in the range of 3-4, indicating that the publication is reliable but important information is missing. The final 2 videos (20%) had a low average score (2 or below), indicating that they are unlikely to be of any benefit and should not be used. Videos with intraoperative clips were significantly more popular, as indicated by the numbers of likes and views (p = 0.01). There was no correlation between video popularity and DISCERN score (p = 0.104). In August 2019, the total number of views for the 10 videos in the final analysis was 537,785.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study demonstrate that patients who seek to access information about LLIF by using the YouTube platform will be presented with an overall moderate quality of educational content on this procedure. Moreover, compared with videos that provide patient information on treatments used in other medical fields, videos providing information on LLIF surgery are still exiguous. In view of the increasing trend to seek medical knowledge on the YouTube platform, and in order to support and optimize patient education on LLIF surgery, the authors encourage academic neurosurgery institutions in the United States and worldwide to implement the release of reliable video educational content.

YouTube for information about side effects of biologic therapy: A social media analysis

OBJECTIVE

Biologic therapies are one of the most significant breakthroughs in the treatment of rheumatic diseases, although there is still some uncertainty surrounding long-term patient safety. Recently, a growing number of patients browse the Internet as a source of health-related information. We aimed to assess the quality of information available on YouTube videos regarding the side effects of biologic therapy.

METHODS

We used the keywords "biologic therapy side effects," "biologic therapy risks," "biologic therapy safety," "biologic agents side effects," "biologic agents risks," and "biologic agents safety." Also, the generic and commercial names of biologic agents were searched on YouTube in May 2020. The quality and reliability of the videos was assessed according to the global quality score (GQS), DISCERN score. Video Power Index (VPI) used to assess both the view and the like ratios of the videos.

RESULTS

Seventy-five videos were evaluated. According to the GQS, 31 videos (40.3%) were of high quality, 18 videos (23.4%) were of intermediate quality, and 28 videos (36.4%) were of low quality. The GQS was significantly positively correlated with the DISCERN score (P < .001). VPI scores were not correlated with DISCERN (P = .268) and GQS scores (P = .411).

CONCLUSION

YouTube videos on the side effects of biologic therapy are informative for patients and physicians. High-quality videos are more reliable but may not be as popular as expected.