Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on Uterine Fibroid Embolization: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, uterus-preserving treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. Despite its clinical effectiveness, public understanding of UFE remains limited, prompting many patients to rely on YouTube for health information. However, the accuracy and educational value of UFE-related content on this platform have not been comprehensively evaluated.

Objective: To assess the quality, reliability, and educational usefulness of YouTube videos about UFE using validated scoring instruments and to analyze viewer engagement patterns.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on YouTube videos identified using the keyword “Uterine Fibroid Embolization.” After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, eligible videos were evaluated for duration, engagement metrics, and content characteristics. Video quality was assessed using DISCERN, JAMA benchmark criteria, and the Global Quality Score (GQS). Interaction Index and View Rating were calculated to determine user engagement. Statistical analyses included the Kruskal–Wallis H test and Bonferroni-corrected pairwise comparisons.

Results: A total of 475 videos published between 2020 and 2025 were analyzed. The largest proportion (34.7%) was uploaded in 2025, and India (38.1%) and the United States (23.8%) were the most common video sources. Median video duration was 61.5 seconds, and median view count was 624. Significant differences were observed across years for both Interaction Index (χ²(5)=12.08, p=0.034) and View Rating (χ²(5)=40.78, p<0.001). Pairwise comparisons showed that 2024 videos had higher interaction scores than those from 2020 (adjusted p=0.039), while 2025 videos demonstrated significantly higher viewing rates than most other years (adjusted p<0.05). Quality assessments revealed substantial variability, with many videos lacking essential information on risks, complications, and treatment alternatives.

Conclusion: YouTube hosts a large quantity of content on UFE, but its quality and reliability vary widely. Viewer engagement does not correlate with educational value, indicating that popular videos may be incomplete or misleading. These findings underscore the need for healthcare professionals and professional societies to promote high-quality, evidence-based digital resources to support informed patient decision-making.

Keywords: Uterine Fibroid Embolization, UFE, YouTube, patient education, video quality, DISCERN, JAMA, Global Quality Score.