Accuracy and Actionability of TikTok Content on Cosmetic Limb Lengthening: A Comparison between Healthcare Professional and Non-professional Sources

Introduction:In the modern digital era, social media platforms, such as TikTok, have become significant sources of medical information for the general public.This study explores the content of TikTok videos related to cosmetic limb lengthening to understand the quality and accuracy of information shared.Methods: The 50 most-viewed English-language videos tagged with #Heightsurgery and #lengtheningsurgery on TikTok were analysed by two independent reviewers.The analysis covered creator demographics, video format, and predominant themes.Each video was also evaluated for medical accuracy and scored for clarity and actionability using the patient education materials assessment tool (PEMAT).Results: The selected videos amassed 186.5 million views, 7.9 million 'likes, ' 1,52,000 'shares, ' and 67,000 comments.Nearly half (47%) were produced by healthcare professionals (HCPs), with orthopaedic surgeons accounting for 70% of the HCP contributors (32.9% of total creators).Medically accurate content was found in 60% of all videos, with 80% of HCP videos featuring accurate information.Educational content dominated (72%), with the remainder being anecdotal (28%).Tone varied, with videos presenting either positive (50%), negative (32%), or neutral (18%) perspectives.Common themes included post-operative experiences (30%), medical education (15%), surgical techniques (12%), risks vs benefits (10%), and treatments for achondroplasia (10%).Concerns about pain, fear, permanent injury (24%), cost (10%), and a lack of understanding of procedures (10%) were also frequently mentioned.Notably, there was no focus on racial or socio-economic barriers in any of the videos.The average understandability and actionability scores, according to the PEMAT, were 67.5 and 67.15%, respectively.Conclusions: The widespread popularity of these videos underscores the growing role of social media in disseminating medical information.This analysis highlights the need for HCPs to leverage platforms like TikTok to provide accurate, reliable information and address common concerns, misconceptions, and fears surrounding cosmetic limb lengthening.