A Bibliometric Analysis of Strabismus Research Literature : Strabismus Research Trends

Background: Strabismus, a common ocular disorder marked by misalignment of the visual axes, can impair depth perception and visual function, while also affecting facial appearance and psychosocial wellbeing. In recent years, the field has seen a growing body of research focusing on its pathogenesis, risk factors, and therapeutic approaches. However, the literature is still fragmented, making it difficult to assess overarching trends. Therefore, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis is needed to understand research developments and identify emerging hotspots in this domain.

Materials and Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer and CiteSpace on 6,540 English-language articles and reviews related to strabismus, published between 1995 and 2025, and retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC).

Results: The updated analysis revealed consistent growth in publication output, with particularly rapid expansion in recent years. While the United States remained a key contributor, China has overtaken the U.S. in annual output since 2023. Keyword co-occurrence and burst analysis identified both long-standing research interests (e.g., intermittent exotropia [IXT], AACE, surgical outcomes) and newer focus areas such as digital screen exposure, artificial intelligence in diagnostics, and individualized surgical planning.

Conclusion: This study provides an updated and comprehensive bibliometric evaluation of global strabismus research through 2025. The results highlight evolving academic contributions, changing geographical trends, and shifting research priorities, offering guidance for future investigations and clinical advancements.