Global research trends in central retinal artery occlusion: a bibliometric analysis (1980-2025)

To analyse the evolution, intellectual structure, and thematic trends of the central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) literature using bibliometric methods.

A topic-based search of the Web of Science Core Collection retrieved all CRAO-related articles and reviews indexed from 1980, the year of the earliest eligible record, through 2025. Publication output, countries, institutions, authors, journals, citations, and keywords were analysed using the Bibliometrix R package. Collaboration networks and thematic mapping were visualised with VOSviewer. Reference-level citation burst analysis was performed in CiteSpace using the Kleinberg algorithm.

A total of 1,952 publications were included. Scientific output increased substantially, particularly during the last decade (average annual growth rate 7.43%). Research productivity and citation impact were concentrated in a limited number of countries and institutions, led by the United States. Co-citation and journal analyses identified a core group of influential authors and ophthalmology journals shaping the field. Keyword analyses demonstrated a shift from descriptive and etiological studies toward advanced imaging techniques, acute treatment strategies, and increasing integration with neurovascular concepts, including stroke and thrombolysis. Citation bursts were generally short-lived, indicating gradual and fragmented knowledge development.

The CRAO literature has evolved from a predominantly descriptive ophthalmic field into a multidisciplinary domain increasingly aligned with acute neurovascular medicine. Despite increasing research activity, further high-quality collaborative efforts and more standardized research approaches are needed to strengthen future developments in the field.