Advances in intelligent assistance operative adjuncts for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A bibliometric analysis of research trends and developments

Purpose This study aims to systematically characterize the worldwide research profile of intelligent assistance operative adjuncts for unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, with particular attention to robotic-assisted systems, computer-assisted navigation, and patient-specific instruments (PSI). By clarifying the developmental trajectory of this field, the study seeks to inform future technological innovation and support evidence-based clinical translation. Methods Studies concerning intelligent assistance operative adjuncts for UKA were identified through the Web of Science Core Collection. The final dataset comprised 296 articles, from which information on authorship, publication characteristics, contributing countries and institutions, source journals, and citation records was extracted. Statistical evaluation combined with visual mapping was used to examine trends in publication output and citation activity, major research themes, influential author clusters, institutional collaboration patterns, and journal distribution. Results Between 2003 and 2025, the annual number of publications showed a continuous upward trajectory. The United States and the United Kingdom contributed the largest share of publications, while the Hospital for Special Surgery ranked first among institutions and Andrew D. Pearle was identified as the leading author by publication output. Among journals, The Journal of Arthroplasty received the highest citation frequency. Frequently occurring keywords included alignment, accuracy, outcome, and survivorship. Conclusion During the past two decades, robotics have evolved from “technical validation” to “evidence-based optimization,” becoming the dominant paradigm among intelligent assistance operative adjuncts. By contrast, navigation systems still exert substantial academic influence, whereas interest in PSI has declined. As alignment accuracy and survivorship are further validated, research has expanded toward long-term functional outcomes, patient satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, providing a basis for evaluation frameworks that integrate patient-reported outcome measures. Large-scale, robotic UKA are expected to further consolidate its role in evidence-based medicine and accelerate the integration of personalized, precision-based, and value-driven care for unicompartmental knee disease, ultimately benefiting a broader patient population.