Biomedical
Content Analysis of YouTube Videos on Radiographic Anatomy on Dental Panoramic Images
Andy Yeung
Andy Yeung
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Applied Oral Sciences and Community Dental Care, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
The radiographic anatomy on dental panoramic images is essential knowledge for proper diagnosis and treatment planning purposes. No prior study has examined the content of YouTube videos with regard to radiographic anatomy on panoramic radiography. The objective of this study was to provide a content analysis on these videos. The initial search string was: (panoramic anatomy). An additional search was performed with the search string: (OPG landmarks). By screening the resultant videos and their related videos (recommended by YouTube as a list on the right of the screen), a total of 62 videos were screened. Videos were excluded if they were irrelevant (e.g., focusing on radiographic errors without covering the anatomy), elaborating mainly with drawings without showing the landmarks on panoramic images, duplicate videos, and non-English speaking. Finally, 38 videos were included and analyzed. Most of them showed clear panoramic images and had clear tracing or delineation of the anatomical landmarks. On average, each video described 26 landmarks, including 12.3 from the midfacial region, 8.2 from the mandible, and 5.2 from soft tissue/air space/others. The videos were of good quality in general, with some frequent shortcomings being lack of visual aid with skull and schematic diagrams, and lack of discussion on clinical relevance. The maxillary sinus was the structure mostly involved in wrong information, particularly the wrong delineation of its posterior wall.
Key Questions
Why is understanding radiographic anatomy on panoramic images important?
Knowing the radiographic anatomy on panoramic images is crucial for dentists and radiologists to make accurate diagnoses and plan treatments effectively. These images show key structures in the jaw and face, so being able to identify landmarks correctly is essential.
What was the goal of this study?
The study aimed to analyze YouTube videos that explain radiographic anatomy on panoramic radiography. Since no one had looked into this before, the researchers wanted to see how well these videos cover the topic and whether they’re a reliable resource for learning.
How did the researchers find and evaluate the videos?
They searched YouTube using terms like “panoramic anatomy” and “OPG landmarks” and reviewed the results, including videos recommended by YouTube. Out of 62 videos screened, 38 met the criteria—they had to be in English, show actual panoramic images, and focus on anatomy rather than errors or drawings. The researchers then analyzed the content of these videos.
What did the study find about the quality of the videos?
Most videos were of good quality, with clear panoramic images and well-marked anatomical landmarks. On average, each video covered about 26 landmarks, with the midfacial region being the most discussed. However, some videos lacked helpful visuals like skull diagrams or didn’t explain the clinical relevance of the landmarks.
Were there any common mistakes in the videos?
Yes, the most frequent error was related to the maxillary sinus, particularly the incorrect identification of its posterior wall. This shows that even good-quality videos can have inaccuracies, which could mislead viewers.
What does this study suggest about using YouTube as a learning tool?
While YouTube can be a useful resource for learning about radiographic anatomy, viewers need to be cautious. The study found that while many videos are clear and informative, some lack important details or contain errors. It’s a good starting point, but learners should double-check information with trusted sources.
