Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the quality of information available in YouTube videos on the treatment of uterine fibroids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The DISCERN Scale Criterion was used to quantify the quality of YouTube videos on uterine fibroid embolization. The Video Power Index was used to quantify the popularity of videos on uterine fibroid embolization.

RESULTS

Among the 31 videos identified in the study, the average total DISCERN score was 48.82 ± 14.48, indicative of average to poor quality. There was no correlation between a video's popularity and its quality. Popularity, as measured by Video Power Index, was not significantly different between videos containing a board-certified physician and those that did not. Videos with a board-certified interventional radiologist had a significantly lower Video Power Index than those without a board-certified physician.

CONCLUSION

YouTube is not currently a high-quality source of information for uterine fibroid treatment options. Physicians should be aware of highly viewed material on YouTube to have informed discussions with patients about their treatment options and address misperceptions.