Global trends of teaching methodologies in oral and maxillofacial surgery education: A 30-Year bibliometric analysis

To analyze 30-year global trends in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery(OMS) education research through bibliometrics, assessing publication patterns, key contributors, and emerging teaching methodologies.

The study analyzed publications on teaching methodologies in oral and maxillofacial surgery within the Web of Science Core Collection, covering the period from 1994 to 2024. A systematic compilation methodology was employed, including rigorous literature retrieval with specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, data cleaning using CiteSpace software to eliminate redundant entries, and comprehensive analysis using multiple tools such as Microsoft Excel for data management, Bibliometric Online Analysis Platform for inter-country collaboration visualization, R software for geospatial data visualization, CiteSpace for constructing visual networks of various elements, and Origin for annual publication analysis. Using these tools, we conducted a bibliometric analysis and visualization of teaching methodologies in this surgical field.

The number of relevant publications in this research area demonstrates a fluctuating yet overall upward trend, totaling 248 articles and 15 reviews. These contributions originate from 37 countries, 41 institutions, and involve 1,306 authors. The USA, UK, and Germany are the leading contributors. Most articles were published in the "Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery." Key authors include Robert Sader, Lukas B. Seifert, and Jasmina Sterz, while Frank Hoelzle has the most influence. The predominant keywords are "skills," "experience," and "competence."

The bibliometric analysis of oral and maxillofacial surgery education highlights a dynamic field with a rising global scholarly interest. The USA, UK, and Germany lead in research contributions, and diverse teaching methods, from traditional lectures to cutting-edge simulations, -playing a crucial role in student development. Despite the challenges, such as resource constraints and the need for technological advancement, the integration of these methods and the adoption of innovative technologies are pivotal for advancing OMS education. This comprehensive approach is essential for equipping future surgeons with the competencies required to thrive in the complex and evolving field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.