Quality and reliability Of YouTube videos on maxillofacial infections: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the quality, reliability, and content level of maxillofacial infection-related videos on YouTube. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 101 videos meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were analyzed. The videos were independently evaluated by two researchers in terms of content scope, quality (Global Quality Scale, GQS), reliability (modified DISCERN and JAMA criteria), and user engagement metrics. RESULTS: The overall quality and reliability of the videos were low to moderate. The mean GQS score was 2.96 ± 0.71, reflecting an overall moderate level of video quality. The content predominantly focused on etiology, clinical findings, and diagnosis, whereas information regarding treatment was relatively limited. As the number of views, likes, and comments increased, the quality and reliability tended to decrease; conversely, longer video duration was associated with higher quality and more comprehensive content. Videos uploaded by healthcare professionals and institutions were found to be more reliable. CONCLUSION: The quality of maxillofacial infection-related videos on YouTube is variable, with particularly insufficient coverage of treatment-related information. Popular videos are not necessarily reliable. Therefore, there is a clear need for more accurate and comprehensive content.