YouTube Videos on Knee Replacements Not Always Accurate, Study Shows

The first knee replacement surgery was performed in 1968 – over 50 years ago. Today, knee replacements are safer, less painful and more effective than ever before. The surgery offers increased mobility with less pain and with that comes a better quality of life.

But as it turns out, not all the information about knee replacements – especially information on social media platforms such as YouTube – is accurate.

Where do patients search for info on knee replacements?

When patients are told they need knee surgery or think they may need it due to joint pain, many turn to their doctors and the internet to gather information on the procedure. Over time, more and more people are using the internet as a source of truth for their healthcare information.

Over 60 percent of people search online for healthcare information on a regular basis, and over 80 percent have used the Internet to search for healthcare information at least one time. Watching YouTube videos is one of the most popular avenues to gather this type of information.

Can knee replacement videos be trusted on YouTube?

A recent study by Ochsner was published in ”Arthroplasty Today” to evaluate if commonly viewed YouTube videos on knee replacements and knee arthritis were of poor, acceptable or excellent quality. Over 100 videos were studied.

The result was that about 85 percent of YouTube videos about total knee replacements and knee osteoarthritis have poor quality regarding diagnostic or treatment information. The most common misinformation was regarding complications with surgery, implant duration and risk factors.

Because of these findings, physicians recommend that you be cautious about the information you take in regarding knee replacements and arthritis on YouTube, as they may be missing pertinent information. When questions and concerns arise regarding your treatment options, consult with your orthopedic surgeon.

Schedule an appointment with an Ochsner Orthopedic specialist today.