Bibliometric and Knowledge-Mapping Analysis of Induced Membrane (Masquelet) Technique in Bone Infection

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics and Traumatology
• Biomaterials Science
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• Osteomyelitis and severe infected bone defects pose significant clinical challenges.
• The induced membrane technique (IMT, Masquelet) has emerged as a key treatment modality.
• Understanding the evolution and network of IMT research is crucial for future advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the evolutionary trajectory, global collaboration, intellectual structure, and clinical frontiers of IMT research.
• To identify the core theoretical pillars and thematic shifts within the field.
• To provide insights into current research trends and future directions for IMT.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric and visualization analyses of 307 articles from 2001-2026, retrieved from Web of Science.
• Utilized R Bibliometrix for data analysis, including logistic growth modeling and author co-citation analysis.
• Employed thematic mapping and Sankey evolution to track research trends and keyword bursts.

Main Results:

• The field is transitioning from novel expansion to clinical maturation, indicated by a logistic growth model (R²=0.827).
• France pioneered early high-impact research, while China shows recent publication surges but limited international collaboration.
• Three pillars identified: IMT conceptualization, comparison with distraction osteogenesis, and integration with osteomyelitis principles.

Conclusions:

• IMT research has shifted from technique validation to a core strategy for complex extremity salvage.
• Contemporary research emphasizes pragmatic limb salvage (flaps, amputation) over early biological modifiers.
• Future progress requires transnational multicenter trials for standardized clinical protocols.