Attitudes of Neurosurgeons Toward Social Media: A Multi-Institutional Study.

BACKGROUND

Social media has become an important communication tool in modern life, and its use is undoubtedly increasing worldwide. Given the rising importance of social media in the health care system, little is known about neurosurgeons' social media use and interactions in the context of professional purposes. This study aimed to analyze social media usage and opinions among neurosurgeons in terms of age, gender, and practice setting.

METHODS

An online survey was administered to neurosurgeons worldwide. A total of 1119 neurosurgeons from 104 different countries responded to the questionnaire.

RESULTS

All respondents were members of at least 1 social media platform. Older neurosurgeons and neurosurgeons in nonacademic settings spent less time on social media (P < 0.05). Communication with peers via social media decreased with age, while communication via e-mail increased (P < 0.05). Most respondents perceived the effect of social media to be beneficial to neurosurgery (very beneficial [28.73%], somewhat beneficial [35.55%]). More women than men considered that social media platforms provided a greater chance for networking opportunities, learning about a new study or conference, and providing rapid and widespread knowledge transfer (P < 0.05). False guidance (44.68%) and violation of privacy (41.64%) were thought to be the main disadvantages.

CONCLUSIONS

Social media use, opinions, and attitudes among neurosurgeons vary depending on their age, gender, and practice setting. Most neurosurgeons stated that the use of social media could have beneficial and advantageous effects on neurosurgery practice, while the frequency of misleading information and lack of privacy were perceived as barriers.