A bibliometric analysis of ultrasound-based evaluation in renal transplantation

Ultrasound is a widely used and effective imaging modality for evaluation in renal transplantation. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the research landscape and emerging trends in the use of ultrasound for renal transplant assessment.

Relevant articles published between January 2010 and June 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS; Science Citation Index Expanded) and PubMed [randomized controlled trial (RCT)] databases using the keywords "ultrasound" and "renal transplant". Publications were screened by article type, language, abstract, and keywords. Bibliometric and visualization analyses were performed using VOSviewer and the bibliometrix R package.

A total of 268 original research articles were included. The analysis demonstrated a notable rise in research activity since 2020, accompanied by extensive international collaboration, with the United States identified as the leading contributor. Transplantation Proceedings was the most prolific journal, while Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation had the highest citation count. Fananapazir G and Haberal M have the highest number of publications, while Brabrand K and Midtvedt K have the highest number of citations. Zhengzhou University was among the most active Chinese institutions in recent years. Machine learning (ML), shear wave elastography (SWE), and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) have emerged as active research topics in the field.

Ultrasound remains a key research focus in the imaging evaluation of renal transplants, with substantial potential for future advancement. The increasing integration of ML with ultrasound-based techniques represents a promising direction, with the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making in renal transplant assessment.