Global research trends in early onset scoliosis (2000-2025): a Scopus-based bibliometric analysis

Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) is a complex spinal deformity that typically manifests before the age of ten. It has a significant impact on pulmonary function and thoracic development. A comprehensive summary of global EOS research trends remains lacking, despite growing interest in the field. This bibliometric analysis aims to provide an overview of EOS research published between 2000 and 2025, highlighting funding sources, journals, countries, top authors, institutions, publishing patterns, and research subjects.

A systematic search of the Scopus database was conducted on 15 September 2025 using the query: TITLE-ABS-KEY("early onset scoliosis") AND PUBYEAR > 2000 AND PUBYEAR < 2025. Extraction of authorship, institutions, nations, collaboration networks, publication features, and citation metrics was done. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise research output and trends. VOSviewer was used for bibliometric mapping and network visualisation.

A total of 2037 publications were identified and analysed. There was a marked increase in annual output, peaking at 187 in 2024, original articles dominated by 77.5% followed by book chapters 9.1%. The United States (n = 859) led the countries, followed by China (n = 196) and the United Kingdom (n = 165). The most productive institutions were The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Boston Children's Hospital (n = 118 each). Spine Deformity, Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, and Spine were the top publishing journals. Key funding sources were the NIH, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the Scoliosis Research Society.

EOS research has expanded substantially over the past two decades, driven by collaborative international efforts, institutional leadership, and targeted funding. This bibliometric analysis provides a framework to guide future research priorities and foster global collaboration. Despite increasing publication volume, studies addressing long-term comparative effectiveness, patient-reported outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and complication management remain underrepresented.