Analyzing ankyloglossia information on TikTok: A cross- sectional study

Abstract

Introduction

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) developed a clinical consensus on ankyloglossia in children to improve understanding of controversies and increase family-centered care. The breadth of information on ankyloglossia available on social media and the consistency with AAO-HNSF consensus remains underexplored.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed on the top 100 publicly available TikTok videos using the search term “tongue tie.” Video metrics and stakeholders were determined and were classified as informational, anecdotal, promotional, advice-seeking, or entertainment. Informational content was compared to the AAO-HNSF consensus statements on ankyloglossia.

Results

The mean number of views for the top videos on ankyloglossia was 1.4 million (SD: 2.6 million) with a mean of 88,009 “likes” (SD: 250,136) and 781 comments (SD: 1805). Only 2% of videos were created by otolaryngologists but dentists, lactation consultants, and other physicians were frequently represented. Videos were classified as informational (41%) or anecdotal (41%) and the most frequent stakeholder was an adult impacted by ankyloglossia (37%). The top theme explored was frenotomy experience for both written (20%) and audio (15%) information. Among informational videos, only 12.5% were completely consistent with AAO-HNSF consensus while most videos (41%) presented information that was partially consistent with consensus statements.

Conclusions

Ankyloglossia is frequently discussed on social media and families often engage with information shared by non-otolaryngologists. Providers should recognize where themes may be inconsistent with the published consensus on ankyloglossia and develop strategic approaches to achieve the AAO-HNSF goal of family-centered care.