Peripheral nerve blocks for hip fracture surgeries: a bibliometric and visual analysis

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Orthopedics
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Hip fractures pose significant morbidity, mortality, and financial burdens, especially in older adults.
• Peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) are increasingly used for postoperative pain, but global research trends are not well-analyzed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a bibliometric analysis of global research on PNB for hip fracture surgery.
• To identify publication trends, key techniques, leading contributors, and research collaborations.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of 377 English-language articles from 2004-2024 using Web of Science Core Collection.
• VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to map publication dynamics, contributors, and keyword clusters.

Main Results:

• Annual publication rate increased by 31.81%, with the US, China, and UK as leading countries.
• Key techniques identified include fascia iliaca, quadratus lumborum, triple nerve, and pericapsular nerve group blocks.
• PENG and adapted fascia iliaca blocks were highly cited; barriers include equipment costs and knowledge gaps.

Conclusions:

• PNB research for hip fractures is growing, indicating potential for improved perioperative recovery.
• Further research is needed on long-term outcomes, mortality, and cost-effectiveness, especially in high-risk patients.
• Standardized guidelines and interdisciplinary research can enhance PNB's role in hip fracture management.