Bibliometric analysis and visualization of research trends in total mesorectal excision in the past twenty years.

BACKGROUND:Rectal cancer leads a major disease burden worldwide. Total mesorectal excision (TME) is the standard treatment for locally advanced or node-positive rectal cancer, while attempts to improve the surgery such as laparoscopic and transanal TME are widely used but have their inherent limitations. This bibliometric study analyzed research trends, cooperation and knowledge dissemination on TME over the past 20 years to inform future directions. METHODS:Relevant literature from 2003-2023 was extracted from Web of Science Core Collection and analyzed with VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R for publication patterns, countries, institutions, authors, and research hotspots. RESULTS:5,345 related publications were included, with rising annual output and citations. The US and China contributed the most studies, while the Netherlands had greater influence. Leiden University ranked first in publications. Top authors were Heald, Kapiteijn, Sauer, Nagtegaal, and Peeters. Researches shifted from cancer-focused to patient-centered care and from radiotherapy/chemotherapy to advanced surgery. Multicenter trials became more common. CONCLUSION:Although the United States and China have the largest number of publications, it should be noted that the influence of these two countries in the field of TME research is not the highest, which does not match the number of publications. In addition, telemedicine, interdisciplinary, medical-industrial integration, etc. may be potential directions for future research in the field of TME.