(258) VASECTOMY ON TIKTOK: AN ANALYSIS OF THE TOP 50 VIDEOS

Abstract Introduction Vasectomy is a safe and effective procedure for men desiring permanent sterility. Recent research has shown a trend towards rising vasectomy volume since the Dobbs decision, especially in men under age 30. Social media is commonly used by patients seeking information prior to proceeding with surgical procedures. Objective We aimed to analyze videos discussing vasectomy on TikTok, with specific attention to the type of user, video content, and video engagement (ie, likes, comments, and views). Methods TikTok was queried for “vasectomy” and the top 50 results were analyzed. Video information collected included source of video (physician v. non-physician user), likes, comments, views, followers, and video length. Videos were further analyzed for specific content including discussion of procedure itself, permanence, failure, need for post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA), and reversal. Results 50 TikTok videos were reviewed by one physician. Of the videos reviewed, 41 (82%) were created by non-physicians and 9 (18%) were created by physicians. Of the physician users, four (44.4%) were urologists. Between these two groups (table 1), videos from non-physician creators had significantly more views, likes, and comments whereas physician users had significantly more followers. Physician users were significantly more likely to discuss permanence of procedure, possible failure and need for PVSA, whereas non-physician users were significantly more likely to discuss side effects/post-procedure experience. Conclusions TikTok users are more likely to view and engage with non-physician user posts discussing their vasectomy experience. Physician users are more likely to mention the risks of the procedure including intent of permanence, possibility of failure, and need for PVSA. Social media is a common way for patients to obtain information about procedures. Due to 23 times more views of non-physician created videos, vasectomists should continue to counsel patients regarding the risks, benefits and alternatives of a vasectomy prior to proceeding. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Endo Pharma, Fellow, Posterity Health, HIMS, WIN fertility, Haleon.