Social Media Utilization in Otolaryngology: A Scoping Review

Abstract

ObjectiveSocial media (SM) is an increasingly popular medium for the medical community to engage with patients, trainees, and colleagues. This review aimed to identify reported uses of SM in otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (OHNS), assess the quality of evidence supporting these uses, and identify gaps in the literature. With the relative lack of regulatory guidelines for the development of SM content, we hypothesized that the quality of content available on SM would be highly variable.Data Sources and MethodsA scoping review was performed of English‐language peer‐reviewed studies published to date discussing SM use in any form within OHNS. Three reviewers independently screened all abstracts. Two reviewers independently extracted data of interest from the full text of articles identified from the preliminary abstract screen.Results171 studies were included, with 94 (54.9%) studies published between 2020 and 2022. 104 (60.8%) studies were conducted in the US. 135 (78.9%) used cross‐sectional or survey‐based methodology; only 7 (4.1%) were controlled studies. SM was most commonly employed for professional networking (n = 37 [21%]), and within subspecialties of otology (n = 38 [22%]) and rhinology/allergy (n = 25 [15%]). Facebook was most frequently used for study recruitment (n = 23 [13.5%]), YouTube for patient education (n = 15 [14.6%]), and Twitter for professional networking (n = 16 [9.4%]).ConclusionSM use within OHNS is increasing rapidly, with applications including patient education, professional networking, and study recruitment. Despite myriad articles, there remains a paucity of well‐controlled studies. As SM becomes integrated into healthcare, particularly for applications directly impacting patient care, higher levels of evidence are needed to understand its true impact. Laryngoscope, 133:2447–2456, 2023

In Response to Social Media Utilization in Otolaryngology: A Scoping Review

“…We appreciate Mr. Muecke's thoughtful Letter to the Editor regarding our manuscript "Social Media Utilization in Otolaryngology: A Scoping Review." 1 We agree the growth and evolution of social media continue to present new challenges for clinicians and researchers, particularly regarding the dissemination of accurate medical information.…”

A descriptive analysis of otolaryngology presence on the social media platform TikTok

“…This study was the first cross‐sectional descriptive analysis of otolaryngology‐related content on the video‐sharing app TikTok. Previous studies have identified the presence of OHNS content on other social media platforms; however, they do not include TikTok 9 . Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons made up nearly half of the identified TikTok accounts, followed by general otolaryngology and minimal representation of laryngology, rhinology, otology, and pediatric otolaryngology.…”

“…Previous studies have identified the presence of OHNS content on other social media platforms; however, they do not include TikTok. 9 Facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons made up nearly half of the identified TikTok accounts, followed by general otolaryngology and minimal representation of laryngology, rhinology, otology, and pediatric otolaryngology. The disproportionate representation of facial plastic and reconstruction accounts may be due to their use of TikTok to promote cosmetic private practice, which is consistent with the documented presence of general plastic surgery on the platform.…”

“…The current landscape of otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (OHNS) on TikTok is unclear. However, a review of current literature of social media use in OHNS demonstrates rapid growth in utilization of social platforms among physicians for broad purposes including networking and education 9 . This mixed methods study is the first to assess otolaryngological TikTok content and presents a recent analysis of popular topics related to OHNS on the app.…”

In Response to Social Media Utilization in Otolaryngology: A Scoping Review

“…We read a recently published review article by Huang et al, which provides insights into the use of social media as a tool to share peer-reviewed otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) research, with great interest. 1 We feel it is necessary to consider the implications of ongoing modifications to Twitter on the dissemination of peer-reviewed OHNS research following the commencement of Elon Musk as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). 2 Previously, a "blue tick" was afforded to notable Twitter accounts of public interest or those with a high following count.…”