Knowledge mapping and research trends in degenerative mitral regurgitation: a bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2024.

Abstract

Degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR) is a cardiovascular condition marked by progressive degeneration of the mitral valve, leading to complications such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Despite advancements, research trends and knowledge gaps remain inadequately addressed. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of DMR-related research to identify publication trends, influential contributors, and emerging research themes. A bibliometric analysis was conducted on articles related to DMR published from 2004 to 2024, retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, R-bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace to evaluate publication trends, international collaborations, key contributors, and emerging research themes. A total of 2,349 publications were identified, with an annual growth rate of 4.07%, involving 12,474 contributors from 79 countries. The USA led with 726 publications and 37,386 citations. Leading institutions included Mayo Clinic and Harvard University. The top journals were the <i>Journal of the American College of Cardiology</i>, <i>Circulation</i>, and <i>The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery</i>. The most influential author was Enriquez-Sarano Maurice, followed by Delling Francesca N. and Pepi Mauro. Keyword analysis identified central themes such as "regurgitation", "surgery", and "echocardiography", with emerging topics like "mitral valve repair" and "transcatheter interventions". This bibliometric analysis highlights significant advancements in DMR research, particularly in surgical techniques and imaging modalities, and provides a foundation for future studies aimed at improving patient outcomes.