Quality of Information About Shoulder Arthroplasty in Videos on YouTube

This study evaluates the quality and reliability of shoulder arthroplasty videos available on YouTube. Using the search terms “shoulder arthroplasty,” “total shoulder arthroplasty,” “partial shoulder arthroplasty,” and “shoulder arthroplasty procedures,” the authors found a total of 150 videos; 91 were assessed, and 82 met inclusion criteria. Two independent reviewers evaluated each video for educational content quality. Further analysis was undertaken using the following variables: upload date; total view count; duration; number of likes, dislikes, and comments; source; and modality. The included videos had an average Global Quality Scale (GQS) score of 2.95, indicating subpar educational content quality. Patient testimonials (10%) scored the lowest average GQS (1.8), while physician-led presentations (26%) scored the highest (3.5). There was no significant difference in average GQS between videos with a higher versus lower view count, or average GQS and days since upload. Most shoulder arthroplasty videos on social media provide low-quality information for patients. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 34(4):163–167, 2025)

Key words: communication, decision making, education of patients, operative surgical procedures, shoulder replacement arthroplasty, social media