The reliability of online information regarding orthognathic surgery available to the public

• Published in: Oral surgery 2013-05, Vol.6 (2), p.56-60
• Main Authors: Cobb, R.J., Scotton, W.J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: internet; orthognathic; Search engines; Surgery
• ISSN: 1752-2471; 1752-248X
• DOI: 10.1111/ors.12020

Objective The purpose of this study is to assess the quality of online information regarding orthognathic surgery using common internet searches. Methods Five common search engines were queried using the string ‘orthognathic surgery OR jaw osteotomy OR surgical orthodontics’. The first 30 sites revealed by each search engine were reviewed and the content quality of the following components was assessed by two independent reviewers: indications, surgical procedure, complications, post‐operative healing and long term outcome. Components were scored 0 to 2 depending on whether topics were addressed and if in accordance with current accepted practice patterns. Results Of the 150 links, 138 were accessible. Fifty‐two per cent were orientated for laypeople. Sixty‐six per cent had an affiliation with a medical institution or professional organisation. Authors were mainly maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists (56%) or unspecified (33%). High scoring content components included indications and surgical procedure. Poorly scoring components included complications and long‐term outcome. Virtually, none of the websites were accredited by a healthcare website accreditation organisation. Conclusions Online information available to the public regarding orthognathic surgery is generally of poor quality. Certain critical aspects of the surgical process are often overlooked by websites.