Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Research Over the Past Two Decades (2005–2025): Global Bibliometric and Knowledge Network Analysis
Abstract
Objective: To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric and knowledge network analysis of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK US) research from 2005 to 2025, with a focus on publication trends, influential authors, institutions, and thematic hotspots. Methods: Articles related to MSK US were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection using the search strategy TS = (“musculoskeletal ultrasound” OR “MSK ultrasound” OR “musculoskeletal ultrasonography”) AND (tendon OR ligament). Eligible studies included English-language original research and review articles published between 2005 and 2025. Bibliometric analyses were performed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace to evaluate publication trends, co-citation networks, author collaborations, institutional and country partnerships, and keyword co-occurrence. Results: A total of 570 articles (476 original research papers and 94 reviews) were included. The annual number of publications increased exponentially, peaking in 2020. Co-citation analysis identified Wakefield (2005), Naredo, and Filippucci as foundational contributors. Author collaboration networks highlighted a strong European core centered on Italy and Spain, while institutional and country analyses revealed a “Europe–North America” dual-center pattern with growing contributions from China. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed three main research pillars: inflammatory arthropathies, sports-related injuries, and degenerative conditions, with emerging interest in advanced imaging techniques and artificial intelligence. Conclusion: T MSK US research has demonstrated sustained growth and diversification over the past two decades. Europe remains a traditional leader, but increasing output from North America and Asia reflects a shift toward global, multicenter collaboration. Future research should prioritize methodological standardization, integration of novel imaging technologies, and alignment with clinically meaningful outcomes to optimize diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility.
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