Arch Otolaryngol
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(1) To determine the prevalence of Internet medical information searches by parents prior to their child's surgical procedure, and (2) to evaluate whether Internet-based health information influences parents' medical decisions on behalf of their children. ⋯ Approximately 50% of the parents in our study with Internet access used it to find medical information prior to their child's surgery. Parents who used the Internet found the information helpful and influential, although physicians remain the most important source of information that guides a parent or patient in their medical decision making. Ideally, surgeons would direct parents or patients to a few trusted Internet sites and be prepared to discuss this information.