Assessing the Quality, Content, and Readability of Online Patient Resources on Viscosupplementation

Introduction The internet is an important source of health information; however, the quality of this information is highly variable. Previous studies have demonstrated poor quality, accuracy, and readability of online materials for several treatments used by adult reconstruction surgeons. The purpose of this investigation was to investigate the quality, content, and readability of online resources on viscosupplementation. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was performed using search terms related to viscosupplementation. The first 50 Google, 10 Yahoo, and 10 Bing search results were compiled. Quality was evaluated using the JAMA Benchmark and DISCERN criteria. Content was assessed by a novel viscosupplementation content score. Readability was evaluated using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level(FKGL) and Flesch Reading Ease(FRE). Results A total of 122 websites were reviewed. Overall, the mean scores were: Content6.01/14,JAMA Benchmark2.2/4,DISCERN34.77/80,FKGL11.91±3.76, and FRE42.69±11.1. Overall, third party websites had higher average content and quality scores when compared to private-practice, academic or commercial websites. Private practice websites had lower DISCERN scores than academic and third-party websites. There were no differences in FKGL and FRE between website categories. Websites found with simple search terms yielded higher quality scores and FRE, but lower FKGL, than searches with complex terms. Discussion The quality, content, and readability of online information on viscosupplementation is poor. As patients continue to access health information online, physicians and patients alike should be aware of the limitations of online information regarding viscosupplementation. Physicians should guide their patients towards reliable sources of information to improve patient care.