Quality assessment of the information websites on cochlear implantation that can be found in an internet search

Introduction Internet research is becoming increasingly important as a source of information for patients before making a therapy decision. However, there are few studies that evaluate the content of the information found. The aim of this study was the qualitative assessment of the Internet-based information on the supply process with a cochlear implant (CI).

Material and Methods The keywords “Cochlear Implant Advice” were searched by using the “Google” search engine. The first ten hit pages were evaluated with regard to the existence of the following criteria: Explanation of the care process (pre- and postoperative phase including rehabilitation), manufacturer-independent explanation of the mode of action of different CIs, operative procedure, mediation of contact with self-help groups.

Results 9 out of 10 websites each provided details on the care process and the modes of action of the various CIs. The surgical procedure was described in 8 out of 10 and contact with self-help groups in 5 out of 10 websites. In 6 cases, the websites were homepages of clinics providing CI, in 3 cases medical articles (e.g. from the Ärzteblatt) and in one case an information page of a self-help group.

Summary The results of the study show that the information that patients can find in Internet research on the provision of CI is heterogeneous in detail, but that patients can already find a lot of information to facilitate entry into the subject of CI. However, this information should be included in a personal consultation. As a perspective, additional references to the white paper or the guideline of the DGHNO seem to make sense in order to make the information more uniform.

Publication History

Article published online:
24 May 2022