Social media “SoMe” in neuro-oncology: a review of the literature

Purpose This article examines the current state of social media (SoMe) in neuro-oncology and neurosurgical oncology. The goal of this paper is to provide thorough discourse regarding benefits and disadvantages of being a neurosurgical oncologist on SoMe, while discussing the place SoMe will have in cranial tumor-based practices going forward. Methods The author’s performed a rigorous literature review on the topic. Included information was pertinent to the history of SoMe in neurosurgical oncology and its impact on the field of neuro-oncology. Incorporated as well are the benefits of being a neurosurgical oncologist on SoMe, the drawbacks of participation on SoMe platforms, and knowledge that facilitates discussion about the future of SoMe in neurosurgical oncology. Results SoMe plays an important role in neuro-oncology and neurosurgical oncology. SoMe continues to exponentially grow in the healthcare sphere as more providers utilize SoMe platforms. We report objective negative and positive outcomes of SoMe in neurosurgical oncology and neuro-oncology. Here, we summarize these results and provide dialogue describing the effect SoMe is having on the many different aspects of neurosurgical oncology and neuro-oncology. Conclusion Although SoMe platforms improve social presence and patient outreach, the use of SoMe can also adversely affect one’s career by exposing clinicians to unchecked societal, legal and professional consequences. While using SoMe as a vessel to propagate career initiatives, neurosurgical oncologists should exercise caution with the content they choose to circulate.