A bibliometric analysis of surgical treatment for rectal prolapse

BACKGROUND: Rectal prolapse is a serious disease characterized by the protrusion of rectal tissue through the anal orifice, predominantly affecting elderly women and significantly impairing quality of life. Surgical intervention remains the definitive treatment, yet debates persist regarding optimal techniques, recurrence rates, and functional outcomes. Despite advancements in minimally invasive approaches, a systematic synthesis of global research trends, collaborative networks, and thematic evolution in this field remains unexplored. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to conduct the first bibliometric analysis of surgical treatments for rectal prolapse, mapping global research trends, collaborative networks, and thematic evolution. Key objectives included identifying leading contributors (countries, institutions, and authors), analyzing shifts in surgical techniques, and highlighting gaps in international collaboration and technological integration to guide future research priorities. METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was performed using 999 English-language publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (2000-2024). Data were analyzed for annual publication trends, geographic and institutional productivity, citation impact, and co-authorship networks. Keyword clustering and burst detection identified emerging themes and technological shifts, while centrality metrics assessed the influence of countries and institutions. RESULTS: (1) Publication trends: Annual output grew from 24 (2000) to 61 (2024), stabilizing post-2010, suggesting technological maturation. (2) Geographic contributions: The United States dominated with 236 articles (5296 citations) and high centrality. China and Japan produced moderately but exhibited limited global collaboration. (3) Institutional networks: Cleveland Clinic institutions led collaborative networks, while authors like Lindsey and Cunningham drove high-impact research. (4) Thematic clusters: Five themes emerged: surgical strategies (e.g., "ventral mesh rectopexy"), pelvic floor dysfunction, risk mitigation, complication management, and symptom associations. A shift toward minimally invasive techniques was evident. (5) Research gaps: Disparities in international collaboration, institutional influence, and integration of emerging technologies (AI/virtual reality) were identified. Priorities include establishing standardized registries, fostering inclusive consortia, and addressing ethical concerns for novel surgical materials. CONCLUSION: This study underscores 3 pivotal imperatives for advancing rectal prolapse surgery research: global registries, inclusive consortia, and tech adoption to enhance outcomes.