Limb amputation versus salvage: Evaluating how reliable YouTube is as a source for patient education

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the educational quality and reliability of YouTube videos related to lower extremity amputation (LEA) versus limb salvage. Pertinent YouTube videos were identified using specific search terms and video educational quality was assessed via validated assessment tools. Fifty-nine videos met inclusion criteria and the mean Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) score was 2.3 ± 0.65 (range: 0–4), indicating poor reliability. The mean Global Quality Score (GQS) was 2.66 ± 0.99 (range: 1–5), reflecting suboptimal educational quality. The mean Limb Salvage versus Amputation (LSA) score was 5.59 ± 3.66 (range: 0–15), indicating limited content quality specifically related to LEA versus limb salvage. Longer video duration was positively correlated with higher JAMA, GQS, and LSA scores. Hospital/University-sponsored videos had higher JAMA and GQS scores and videos by Healthcare Professionals (Nonphysician: PhDs and medical educators) content creators had the highest LSA scores. The study highlights the need for improved patient educational resources on LEA versus limb salvage, as the overall reliability and educational quality of YouTube videos on this topic is poor.