YouTube and TikTok as patient resources: assessment of online video content on extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy

Our objective was to determine the content, reliability, and quality of YouTube and TikTok videos related to extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL).

The key word "shock wave lithotripsy" was searched on YouTube and TikTok in July 2025 and the first 100 videos on both platforms were watched. Video characteristics were documented, and each video was independently evaluated by two urologists using a custom-designed comprehensiveness scale, along with the modified DISCERN and Global Quality Scale (GQS).

Sixty-five YouTube and 23 TikTok videos met the inclusion criteria. While YouTube videos were longer in duration (p <0.001), TikTok videos achieved a significantly greater median view count (p = 0.048). YouTube videos demonstrated significantly higher scores on the comprehensiveness scale, modified DISCERN, and GQS compared to TikTok videos, respectively (p = 0.001, p <0.001, p = 0.002). Most narrators were urologists (54.5%), and their videos scored significantly higher GQS compared to others (p = 0.001). Comprehensiveness scale modified DISCERN and GQS scores were significantly positively correlated with duration of video (p <0.001). The scales demonstrated positive intercorrelations among themselves (p <0.001).

YouTube videos about SWL were of higher quality, reliability, and comprehensiveness than TikTok videos, although TikTok content attracted more viewers. The results emphasize that popularity does not equate to accuracy and underscore the importance of increasing the availability of high-quality, expert-led educational content across social media platforms.