Educational quality of YouTube videos on robot-assisted thymectomy: a LAP-VEGaS-based evaluation

Video-based learning has become an integral component of surgical training, especially with the growing implementation of minimally invasive techniques such as robot-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS). However, the educational value of freely accessible online videos remains unclear. We aimed to assess the educational quality of the most-viewed YouTube videos on RATS thymectomy using a structured evaluation framework and to analyze the relationship between video-related parameters and educational performance.

A structured search of YouTube was conducted on March 11, 2026, using the predefined search term "robotic thymectomy." The 100 most-viewed videos were screened, and 38 videos met the inclusion criteria. Videos were assessed by two experienced thoracic surgeons using the 9-item LAP-VEGaS (Laparoscopic Surgery Video Educational Guidelines) scoring system, which was applied as a structured framework for evaluating general surgical video educational quality. Video characteristics were recorded and analyzed in relation to educational quality.

The mean LAP-VEGaS score was 9.76 ± 3.42 (range: 4-16), and only 17 videos (44.7%) achieved a score ≥ 11, indicating acceptable educational quality. Most videos were uploaded by individual surgeons and were predominantly of 720p resolution. View count was positively correlated with likes and time since upload but showed no significant association with LAP-VEGaS score.

Among highly viewed English-language YouTube videos on RATS thymectomy, a considerable proportion did not meet expected standards for structured surgical education. Common popularity metrics, particularly view count, are not reliable indicators of educational value. Structured and standardized approaches to video creation should be promoted to enhance the overall quality and trustworthiness of online surgical education materials.