Reliability and Educational Features of YouTube Videos About Hernia Operations Performed Using Laparoscopic TEP Method

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability, educational features, and popularity of YouTube videos on inguinal hernia operations using the laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) method on the basis of objective scoring criteria. Materials and Methods: We reviewed the first 50 videos on TEP. To assess the reliability and educational features of the videos, we used the DISCERN questionnaire score (DISCERN), Journal of the American Medical Association Benchmark criteria (JAMAS), and Global Quality Scores (GQS). We then used Video Power Index (VPI) to assess the videos' power on YouTube, and total extraperitoneal scoring (TEPS) to assess their conformity with the medical technique and also the accuracy, quantity, and quality of the information contained therein. Results: In the analysis of the source and contents of videos, the VPI, DISCERN, JAMAS, GQS, and TEPS values of all videos were found to be low. A positive correlation-at a level of 0.988-was found to exist between their number of views and VPI values (r: 0.988, P<0.001). Furthermore, we also observed a positive correlation-at a level of 0.811-between the video's likes and DISCERN scores (r: 0.811, P: 0.004). There was no other statistically significant relationship between other scores and the quantitative features of videos. A positive correlation-at a level of 0.709-was found between the videos' GQS and TEPS (r: 0.709, P: 0.022). No correlation was found among other scores. Conclusion: Depending on the scoring criteria, the lower scores obtained by those videos show that they do not provide a sufficient level of reliability and quality information.