Global trends and hotspots of left ventricular assist device from 1963 to 2024: a bibliometric analysis

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have undergone significant evolution as a crucial intervention for severe heart failure. This study sought to delineate the developmental trajectory of LVAD research through bibliometric analysis, emphasizing key advancements, principal contributors, and evolutionary trends. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was performed utilizing the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, encompassing publications from 1963 to 2024 pertinent to LVADs. This search yielded a total of 9,552 articles published in English. Data visualization and analysis were executed using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20), CiteSpace (version 6.3.R1), and R 4.3.3. The examination of the 9,552 publications revealed notable global collaboration and considerable growth in LVAD research from 1963 to 2024. The United States led contributions, followed by Germany and Japan. Columbia University emerged as the leading institution with strong international collaborative networks. The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation and Circulation were identified as the most influential journals. Notable authors like Naka Y and Pagani FD stood out with high citation counts and collaborative networks. Keyword analysis indicated a shift from fundamental device functionality to more intricate themes, such as regenerative medicine and long-term patient management. This bibliometric analysis of the LVAD domain underscores research progress, emerging hotspots, and major contributors. It serves as a significant reference for future advancements in LVAD technology and its clinical applications, while fostering improvements and innovations in the treatment of heart failure.