Research trends and collaborations in single-port robotic pyeloplasty: a bibliometric analysis

Single-port robotic pyeloplasty (SP-RP) has emerged as a minimally invasive approach for the management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). However, the scientific development and research landscape of this field remain incompletely characterized. This study aimed to evaluate publication trends, leading contributors, collaborative networks, and research themes within the SP-RP literature using bibliometric methods. Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection. After excluding publications from 2026, non-English studies, records published in journals not indexed in the Science Citation Index Expanded, publication types other than original articles and reviews, and studies unrelated to the topic, 64 publications were included. Bibliometric analyses were performed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. Annual scientific production, citation patterns, journal productivity, institutional and country contributions, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence patterns were evaluated. Scientific output increased substantially, reaching its highest level in 2025 (n = 11). Urology was the most productive journal (n = 10), while Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute was the leading institution (n = 33). The United States dominated the field in publication output (n = 114), corresponding authorship (n = 38), and citation impact (1,735 citations). In the co-authorship network, Jihad H. Kaouk demonstrated the highest collaboration strength. Keyword analysis identified "robotic surgery," "pyeloplasty," "single-port," "UPJO," and "laparoscopy" as the most frequently occurring terms. The findings demonstrate a marked expansion of SP-RP research in recent years. The United States and several high-volume institutions have played central roles in the development of this field, while collaborative networks and evolving research themes indicate continued interest in this emerging robotic reconstructive approach.