XR (extended reality: virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality) technology applications in orthopedic field

This study aimed to perform a bibliometric analysis to explore the current state and emerging trends of XR (extended reality: virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality) technology applications in orthopedics.

Scholarly publications from January 1, 2000, to June 20, 2023, were retrieved from the Web of Science and analyzed using bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R.

A total of 551 publications from 234 journals, authored by 2624 researchers across 1613 institutions in 53 countries/regions, were included. The United States led in publication volume (128, 23.79%), with Johns Hopkins University as the most productive institution (19, 3.53%). Edstrom, Erik was the most prolific author (15, 2.79%), and the International Journal of Computer Assisted Radiology and Surgery had the highest publication count (36, 6.69%). Frequently used keywords included "augmented reality," "surgical navigation," and "navigation," while research hotspots focused on topics like "total knee arthroplasty," "mixed reality," and "osteoarthritis."

This study offers a comprehensive overview of research trends and advancements in XR technology applications within orthopedics, highlighting collaborative efforts among authors, institutions, and countries, and providing insights for future research directions.