The readability and reliability of Greek web-based information on rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background: A constantly increasing number of patients seek for Internet sources on diseases or surgical operations before consulting with a medical specialist. Popular among surgical procedures is rhinoplasty. Depending on the quality of information, patient decision making, expectations and satisfaction may be affected in a positive or negative manner. The aim of this study is to objectively assess the readability and reliability of Internet health information in the Greek language on rhinoplasty. Materials and Methods: We performed a search in the Google engine using a combination of Greek language terms relating to rhinoplasty. After collation and rejection of duplicate, irrelevant or invalid links, the first twenty highest ranking Greek Web sites were analyzed using the on-line Greek Language Centre Literacy Level calculator, the on-line Greek text readability calculator, and the DISCERN publication quality assessment instrument. Results: From the twenty Web sites, 40% required very good and 35% required excellent Greek Language Literacy Level for comprehension. Content reading was considered quite difficult in 15%, difficult in 60% and very difficult in 25% of the Web sites. The quality of the Web sites appraised by the DISCERN instrument was low to medium. No correlation was found between Google site rank and DISCERN total score. Conclusions: In general, the reliability of Internet health information in the Greek language on rhinoplasty is mediocre at best and the readability of the respective texts is lower than recommended. Patients should be cautious and always consult one or more medical specialists before reaching a final decision. Evaluation and accreditation of Internet health information sites would greatly assist on sound patient decision-making and satisfaction.

Keywords

• rhinoplasty
• nose job
• nose plastic surgery
• health information
• internet
• world wide web