{"id":"d406ecef-83b1-4ee7-85d1-8927ce59d48b","slug":"social-media-can-be-a-powerful-medium-for-responsible-and-compliant-neurosurgical-remote-second-opinions","title":"Social media can be a powerful medium for responsible and compliant neurosurgical remote second opinions","authors":["Giovanni Barbagli","James Kelbert","Amna Hussein","Dana Saleh","Gilberto Perez Rodriguez Garcia","Nikhil Dholaria","Annie Pico","Courtney Deaver","Joseph Georges","Sananthan Sivakanthan","Michael Prim","Ali A. Baaj"],"abstract":"Background: Remote second opinions (RSOs) are increasingly sought in neurosurgery due to complex diagnoses and treatment options. Social media platforms have emerged as spaces for patients and caregivers to explore treatment opinions, although there is limited literature addressing this trend. Various barriers, including language, lack of dedicated platforms, and unpopularity of second opinions, may contribute to the underutilization of social media for RSOs in neurosurgery. Summary: The letter discusses the potential of social media as a medium for responsible and compliant RSOs in neurosurgery. It highlights the importance of ethical considerations, particularly regarding the physician-patient relationship and the risks associated with delays in treatment. The authors propose that while social media can enhance access to information and education, it is crucial for physicians to maintain professionalism and adhere to established medical ethics. Conclusion: The potential benefits of social media in neurosurgery are significant, particularly for patients in underserved areas. However, these advantages must be balanced with ethical principles, patient confidentiality, and professionalism. Neurosurgeons have a responsibility to provide RSOs ethically and compliantly, ensuring that patient care remains the priority. Keywords: neurosurgery, remote second opinion, social media, ethical considerations, patient care, medical ethics, professionalism","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/placeholders/specialty/computational.png","publishDate":"2025-04-04T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_883_2024","categories":["Computational","Letter to the Editor"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13488/SNI-16-118.pdf"}