A scientometric analysis of highly cited papers in Indian spine research (1995-2024): navigating the impact

The spine research within India has seen significant advancement, yet detailed examinations of its impact and evolution still need to be made sparse. To conduct a comprehensive scientometric review of the most frequently cited papers in Indian spine research from 1995 to 2024, aiming to map the field's evolution and its global impact.

Utilizing the Scopus database, a search was performed with keywords related to spine research, identifying 105 highly cited papers. This study focused on trends in publications, document types, affiliations, collaboration networks, and citation patterns.

The period between 2005 and 2014 saw a significant increase in publications, with a notable emphasis on international collaborations, especially with the United States and Canada. Clinical research, particularly on the lumbar spine and surgical advancements, emerged as the primary focus. The average citations per document stood at 102.37, with original research articles constituting 73.33% of the total. Collaboration spanned across 31 countries, with the United States being the foremost partner. Indian institutions like Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore, and the All India Institute of Medical Science, New Delhi, were among the top contributors. Indian authors, notably with S. Rajasekaran leading, followed by AK Jain.

The findings highlght the pivotal role of Indian spine research in contributing to the global knowledge base, highlighting significant areas of strength and opportunities for future research. The study offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare planners, aiming to enhance spinal health care in India and internationally.