Global research trends in biliary atresia-related liver fibrosis: a bibliometric analysis (2000-2024)

Biliary atresia (BA) is a severe neonatal liver disorder that can progress to liver fibrosis and eventual failure. This bibliometric study evaluates global research on BA-related liver fibrosis from 2000 to 2024, highlighting emerging trends and key contributions.

Data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, focusing on original articles and reviews. Bibliometric tools were employed to assess publication trends, citation impact, and research collaboration.

A total of 589 publications were identified from 2000 to 2024. Publication output showed relative stability from 2000 to 2014 (223 publications), followed by a marked increase to 296 publications during 2015-2022, with continued growth in 2023 (39 publications) and 2024 (31 publications) [χ ²(1) = 113.28, p < 0.001 for the 2000-2014 vs. 2015-2022 comparison]. The leading contributors were China, the USA, and Japan. Notable institutions included Chulalongkorn University, Fudan University, and University of Cincinnati. Author analysis identified a small group of prolific researchers with high publication counts and H-indices, such as Yong Poovorawan (40 publications, H-index 12) and Michael Davenport (24 publications, H-index 15), indicating substantial research impact. Core journals in the field included Pediatric Surgery International, Journal of Pediatric Surgery, and Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, all of which demonstrated high publication volumes and impact factors. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed research clusters around pathogenesis, management, molecular mechanisms, non-invasive biomarkers, and imaging techniques. Co-citation analysis highlighted early diagnosis, surgical outcomes, and pathogenesis as central research themes. Future trends suggest a growing focus on non-invasive diagnostics, molecular mechanisms, and international collaboration, with keywords such as "pathogenesis," "outcome," "elasticity imaging techniques," and "shear wave elastography" showing citation bursts.

Research on BA-related liver fibrosis has significantly increased, with key contributions from leading countries, institutions, and authors. Core journals have been instrumental in shaping the research discourse. This study provides valuable insights into current research trends and future directions, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing the understanding and treatment of BA-related liver fibrosis.