YouTube as a source of information about apical resection: a metadological study

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the use of YouTube as a source of information about apical resection, using a methodological approach. Methods: The search term "apicectomy" was identified using the Google Trends application. On 18th January 2024, between 10:00 and 13:00, the term "apicectomy" was searched on YouTube videos. The URLs of the first 250 videos were copied and the 53 videos that met the inclusion criteria were evaluated and scored for Global Quality Score (GQS), Modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) scale and completeness. Statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, as well as the Shapiro-Wilk and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: Of the 53 videos analysed, 5 were found to have excellent content, 30 were found to have average content and 18 were found to have poor content. Videos uploaded by dentists/specialists had significantly higher numbers of views, longer durations, more likes, comments, and view rates compared to those uploaded by commercial and other sources (p<0.05). GQS, DISCERN, definition, indication, surgical technique, retrograde filling materials, prognosis and total score were significantly higher in the dentist/expert source compared to commercial and other sources (p<0.05). Conclusion: The level of excellence of YouTube videos on apical resection was found to be "moderate". All videos with an excellent content level were uploaded by a dentist/specialist source. More comprehensive and informative videos about apical resection in dentistry should be uploaded to YouTube by dentists and specialists.