Surface ablation laser surgery: Bibliometric and visualized analysis from 2004 to 2023

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Surface ablation laser surgery is regaining popularity for myopia correction due to its safety and positive impact on corneal biomechanics.
• Understanding research trends is crucial for advancing the field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the focal points and future trends in surface ablation laser surgery over the past two decades using bibliometric analysis.
• To identify leading countries, institutions, authors, and journals in this research area.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric and visual analyses were performed on 3415 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection.
• VOSvivewer, CiteSpace, and Pajek were utilized for analyzing publication data.
• Keywords were clustered to identify research hotspots and emerging trends.

Main Results:

• The United States leads in productivity and influence. Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Kymion GD were most productive; University of Crete and Randleman JB were most influential.
• The Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery is a key publication. Top cited references focus on wound healing and wavefront aberration.
• Recent keywords include transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy, retreatment, transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy, and biomechanical properties.

Conclusions:

• Surface ablation laser surgery research shows dynamic development over the last 20 years.
• Key research areas include clinical outcomes, complications, and specific techniques like transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy.
• Future research should focus on advancing techniques and understanding biomechanical properties for improved patient outcomes.