Tendencias globales de innovación y productividad en microcirugía para la cirugía plástica: Un análisis bibliométrico

Abstract

Introduction: Microsurgery in plastic surgery has experienced significant growth since 1976, particularly in fields such as breast reconstruction and the management of surgical flaps. However, inequalities persist in scientific output and global access to this technology.

Objective: This bibliometric study analyzed global trends in productivity, innovation, collaboration and gaps in microsurgery applied to plastic surgery.

Method: A bibliometric analysis was conducted on publications indexed in Scopus, utilizing terms related to microsurgery and plastic surgery. Scientific mapping techniques and bibliometric analyses were applied to evaluate global output, international collaborations, and research themes.

Results:  A total of 282 documents were identified, with the United States leading in scientific production and impact (h-index of 24). Microsurgery emerged as the most prolific journal, while Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery stood out for its impact. Key thematic areas included breast reconstruction and surgical flaps. Since 2012, a notable increase in scientific output has been observed. International collaboration networks are predominantly composed of countries with high or upper-middle incomes.

Conclusions: This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of global trends in microsurgery applied to plastic surgery, highlighting the central role of international collaborations and emerging thematic areas. The findings carry significant implications for evidence-based decision-making and the design of policies that promote equity in research and specialized surgical care.