Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Videos on YouTube: An Analysis of Video Content and Quality

PURPOSE: Our purpose was to analyze the content and quality of YouTube videos related to distal biceps tendon (DBT) ruptures and repair. We aimed to compare differences between academic and nonacademic video sources. METHODS: The most popular YouTube videos related to DBT injuries were compiled and analyzed according to source. Viewing characteristics were determined for each video. Video content and quality were assessed by 2 reviewers and analyzed according to the Journal of the American Medical Association benchmark criteria, DISCERN criteria, and a Distal Biceps Content Score. Cohen’s kappa was used to measure interrater reliability. RESULTS: A total of 59 DBT YouTube videos were included. The intraclass correlation coefficients ranged from moderate to excellent for the content scores. The mean DISCERN score was 29, and no videos were rated as either “good” or “excellent” for content quality. With the exception of the mean Journal of the American Medical Association criteria score (1.5 vs 0.5), videos from academic sources did not demonstrate significantly higher levels of content quality. Only 4/59 videos (7%) discussed the natural history of nonsurgically treated DBT ruptures. Of the 32 videos that discussed surgical techniques, only 3/32 (9%) had a preference for 2-incision techniques. No videos discussed the association between spontaneous DBT ruptures and cardiac amyloidosis. CONCLUSIONS: The overall content, quality, and reliability of DBT videos on YouTube are poor. Videos from academic sources do not provide higher-quality information than videos from nonacademic sources. Videos related to operative treatment of DBT ruptures more frequently discuss single-incision techniques. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Social media videos can function as direct-to-consumer marketing materials, and surgeons should be prepared to address misconceptions regarding the management of DBT tears. Patients are increasingly seeking health information online, and surgeons should direct patients toward more reliable and vetted sources of information.