Rasmussen, Nathan G

ABSTRACT Objectives Tongue base obstruction is a cause of persistent sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy in pediatric patients. The internet is the most used tool by patients for gathering healthcare information. This study aims to assess the quality and readability of websites directed to patients regarding tongue base procedures for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Methods Queries for the terms “lingual tonsillectomy,” “posterior midline glossectomy,” “tongue reduction,” “tongue base suspension,” and “hypoglossal nerve stimulator” were entered into Google on September 11, 2023. Thirty sites were pulled for each, and up to 10 sites per query meeting inclusion criteria were included for analysis. The DISCERN tool was used to evaluate quality. Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES) and Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) were used to measure readability. Sites were analyzed for mention of pediatrics. Results Thirty‐five unique sites were analyzed. The mean DISCERN score was 44.7 (range 28.5–64.0) or “fair.” The mean FRES was 46.3 (range 9.6–66.6) and FKGL 11.5 (range 7.4–19.2), indicating college and 12th‐grade reading levels. Only 8/35 sites mentioned pediatrics. The average number per query of relevant sites directed towards patients on the first search engine page was 3.6. Despite tongue base procedures being relevant to pediatrics, only one in five sites mentioned children. Conclusion Websites directed at patients regarding tongue base procedures are of “fair” quality and at readability grade levels far above what is recommended. The majority of sites available for tongue base procedures are geared to professionals rather than patients. This study demonstrates a need for high‐quality information for patients about these procedures.