Mapping knowledge structure and emerging trends in non-invasive brain-computer interface for stroke rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Stroke rehabilitation is a critical area of medical research.
• Non-invasive brain-computer interface (BCI) technology offers novel therapeutic avenues.
• Understanding the research landscape of BCI in stroke is essential for future advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the research trends and identify emerging frontiers in non-invasive BCI for stroke.
• To analyze publication output, key contributors, and research hotspots.
• To provide insights into the evolution and future directions of this interdisciplinary field.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of publications from Web of Science Core Collection (Jan 2014–Mar 2025).
• Inclusion of English articles and reviews, exclusion of non-peer-reviewed materials.
• Construction of knowledge maps using author, institution, and keyword data.

Main Results:

• 587 publications analyzed, showing an increasing trend over the decade.
• China led in publication volume; Mads Jochumsen was the most prolific author.
• Research hotspots include signal acquisition, EEG-based types, neural mechanisms, algorithms, and rehabilitation outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Non-invasive BCI technology holds significant clinical value for stroke rehabilitation.
• Advances in technology and interdisciplinary collaboration drive innovation.
• Future research will likely focus on multimodal integration, deep learning, and material technology.