Quality and Content of YouTubeTM Videos Related to Sinus Lift Surgery

Abstract

ObjectiveIn the interest of supplying medical information to YouTubeTM videos, this study aimed to assess the quality and content of the information provided that is related to sinus lift surgery. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, YouTubeTM videos were searched using the search term “sinus lift surgery”. The first 140 videos were reviewed and analyzed by two independent researchers, after which 103 of them were included in the study. A 13-point scale was used to classify the videos by low- and high-content. Each video was evaluated on content quality using the video information and quality index (VIQI). ResultsNinety-four (94.28%) and nine (8.72%) videos were included in the high-content and low-content groups, respectively. The high-content video group covered more topics than the low-content group, such as the definition of the procedure, its contraindications and advantages, and what to expect after the surgery (P < 0.05). The total VIQI scores of the high-score group were significantly higher than those of the low-score group. There was a positively strong correlation between total content score and VIQI (r = 0.777, P < 0.05). ConclusionThe quantity and quality of the YouTubeTM videos that feature sinus lift surgery are limited for professionals but may be sufficient for patients and non-specialist health care providers. Medical professionals, such as periodontists and oral surgeons, should play more of an active role in providing high-quality information by directing patients toward alternative sources that more clearly explain their surgeries.