#CBCLIPS: The international impact of a social media-based pediatric surgery interactive educational program

Despite the transformative influence of social media on connectivity, learning, and networking, its role and impact on surgical education remains undefined. In the current study, we evaluated the impact of #CBCLIPS (Case Based Clinical Learning In Pediatric Surgery), a social media-based pediatric surgery educational program.

A descriptive mixed-methods study evaluated the impact of #CBCLIPS, by analyzing social media engagement metrics (likes, shares, comments) across X, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Additionally, an online survey administered on these platforms assessed participants' perceptions of knowledge gained and satisfaction with the program. Descriptive statistics summarized quantitative data, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative feedback.

#CBCLIPS was highly relevant and appealing to its viewers in all three social media platforms. On X, the episodes boasted an average engagement rate of 6.9 %, significantly outperforming typical benchmarks for the platform. Visibility for #CBCLIPS was substantial on both X and LinkedIn, achieving up to 13,810 and 8282 impressions, respectively. Facebook emerged as the leading platform for interactive engagement, with medians of 60 likes and 13 comments per post, reinforcing its position as the premier platform for fostering community discussions. The survey was completely answered by 160 people from 71 different countries.

#CBCLIPS is a continuous interactive educational program that significantly engages an international audience, facilitates knowledge acquisition and application, and garners high support among participants. Its reach and success demonstrate the effectiveness of social media-based education in pediatric surgery.