Citation Analysis in Breast Reconstruction Publications Between 2000 and 2010

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Breast reconstruction is a dynamic field within plastic surgery.
• Citation analysis quantifies publication influence, identifying key research trends.
• Understanding influential research aids in assessing the evolution of surgical techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a citation analysis of the most influential breast reconstruction publications between 2000 and 2010.
• To identify contemporary research trends and the evidence base in breast reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• A bibliometric analysis of the top 50 most cited breast reconstruction papers from 2000-2010 using the SCI-EXPANDED database.
• Data extraction included publication details, study design, evidence level, surgical techniques (implants, flaps, ADM, fat grafting), and outcomes.

Main Results:

• The majority of highly cited papers were published between 2004-2009, predominantly in "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery".
• Most studies were retrospective or case series (Level III/IV evidence), with only one Level I study identified.
• Implant-based and flap-based reconstructions were the most frequent topics, with a focus on complications and outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Breast reconstruction techniques have advanced significantly, as indicated by influential publications.
• There is a critical need for higher-quality evidence (e.g., Level I/II studies) to support surgical decision-making in breast reconstruction.