Quality and reliability of rectal prolapse short-video content on tiktok and bilibili: A cross-sectional content analysis
Xiaowen Wang, Zuowu Xi, Mingliao Niu, Zongyue GaoObjective
To evaluate engagement metrics, content coverage, information quality, and reliability of rectal prolapse–related short videos on TikTok and Bilibili, and to assess the influence of uploader type.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional content analysis. Using visitor mode and the default comprehensive ranking algorithm of each platform, two researchers searched for “rectal prolapse” from October 14 to 22, 2025. The first 150 videos per platform were screened, yielding 256 unique eligible videos. Extracted variables included platform, upload date, duration, and engagement metrics (likes, comments, favorites, shares). Video quality and reliability were independently assessed by two colorectal surgeons using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN), and the JAMA benchmark; discrepancies were adjudicated by a senior expert.
Results
TikTok outperformed Bilibili across engagement metrics (all p<0.001); video duration did not differ significantly (p=0.068). Median GQS and JAMA scores were higher on TikTok (both p≤0.001); mDISCERN differences were smaller yet significant (p=0.008). Videos from specialists scored higher on GQS, mDISCERN, and JAMA (all p<0.001). Content emphasized treatment and symptoms, whereas prevention and differential diagnosis were under-covered. Engagement metrics were highly inter-correlated but showed very weak correlations with quality scores.
Conclusions
Video volume is increasing, whereas overall quality remains moderate. TikTok showed higher engagement and quality than Bilibili. Specialists play a key role in improving content. Platforms should incorporate reliability-weighted ranking signals and promote an essential-elements checklist for patient education.