Neurosurgical research in Pakistan: a descriptive bibliometric analysis of developments and disparities in 25 years

The objective was to conduct comprehensive bibliometric studies which would offer valuable insights into neurosurgery research and training in Pakistan. We conducted a bibliometric analysis for all PubMed-indexed peer-reviewed publications from January 2000 to June 2024, where at least one author was affiliated with any neurosurgical department in Pakistan and the research was conducted in Pakistan. A significant exponential rise was seen during the 2016-20 and 2021-24 periods. Most publications were from Karachi ,651 (56.7%), Lahore, 128 (11.1%), Peshawar, 104 (9.1%) and Islamabad, 79 (6.9%). Most of the contributions were from Dr Muhammad Tariq, 79 (17.8%), Dr Syed Ather Enam, 79 (17.8%), and Dr Salman Sharif, 75 (16.9%). Most of the studies were original articles, 247 (36.2%), followed by case reports, 165 (24.2%) and review articles, 118 (17.3%). The most frequently study design used was cross-sectional, 187 (76.6%), followed by cohort, 59 (22.6%). Amongst the local PubMed-indexed journals, the Journal of Pakistan Medical Association was the most favourite local journal, representing, 154 (24.9%) of the total publications. Amongst the international journals, Surgical Neurology International and World Neurosurgery represented about, 103 (16.7%) and, 91 (14.7%) publications, respectively. The gradually rising trend in neurosurgical publications by Pakistani clinicians is a humble contribution to the global scientific literature. The progressive role of Karachi city as a flag-bearer of neurosurgical research is commendable, but it also raises questions the silence prevalent in other major cities of the country harbouring large neurosurgical setups andteaching programmes. It is imperative to promote research initiatives in neurosurgery, and increase awareness among neurosurgical trainees and practitioners regarding the significance of active research and publications.