Evaluation of the quality and reliability of Chinese content about orthognathic surgery on BiliBili and TikTok: a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Orthognathic surgery is commonly used to correct dentofacial deformities for both functional and aesthetic reasons. As social media increasingly becomes a source of health information, concerns have arisen regarding the quality and reliability of such content. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the quality and reliability of orthognathic surgery-related videos on BiliBili and TikTok, and to identify factors influencing video quality. A search using the term “orthognathic surgery” was conducted on both platforms in February 2025. Videos were categorized by content and source, and assessed using the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) tools. The results showed that videos on BiliBili had significantly higher quality and reliability than those on TikTok (P < 0.001), but the overall quality across both platforms was poor (mean GQS = 2.20; mDISCERN = 1.77). Videos created by medical professionals, particularly those focused on disease knowledge, were significantly more reliable (P < 0.05). Orthodontists’ videos scored higher than those from orthognathic surgeons (P < 0.05). Positive correlations were observed between video quality and reliability, number of saves, shares, and duration. These findings highlight the need for better regulation of online medical content and encourage greater involvement of healthcare professionals in producing accurate, high-quality health information.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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