Colonic diverticular disease: a bibliometric and visual analysis of the top 50 cited publications

Colonic diverticular disease (CDD) is a prevalent gastrointestinal condition with evolving patterns in diagnosis, management, and research focus. However, no prior study has systematically mapped the academic literature shaping the field. This bibliometric and visual analysis aims to identify and evaluate the 50 most-cited publications on CDD. Articles were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, and data were extracted on citation count, publication year, journal, country of origin, study design, level of evidence, authorship gender, and primary outcomes. Additionally, keyword co-occurrence and country collaboration networks were analyzed. Data were visualized using VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel. The most-cited articles were published between 1953 and 2020, with a concentration between 2010 and 2015. The United States accounted for 58% of the top-cited studies, with limited representation from low- and middle-income countries. Retrospective cohort studies, reviews, and guidelines were the most frequent study types, while level 5 and level 1 evidence predominated. Surgical management emerged as the most common thematic focus, with relatively few articles addressing patient-reported outcomes, microbiome-related mechanisms, or cost-effectiveness. A notable gender imbalance was observed, with male authors occupying most first and senior author positions. Citation performance varied widely, with Painter et al leading in total citations. This study highlights the dominant role of Western institutions and surgical perspectives in shaping the field and underscores underrepresented research domains. The findings may guide future research priorities and promote a more inclusive and balanced scholarly landscape in diverticular disease.