Objective: To comprehensively examine global research developments in varicose vein treatment over the past decade by combining bibliometric analysis with an overview of clinical trial trends, highlighting shifts in therapeutic strategies and emerging priorities. Methods: A bibliometric assessment was carried out using the Web of Science Core Collection, focusing on English articles and reviews published between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2024. Tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and SciExplorer were used to analyze publication patterns, geographic and institutional contributions, author collaborations, co-citation networks, keyword co-occurrences, and emerging research themes. Additionally, a comprehensive review of 374 clinical trials from PubMed was performed to explore trends in study design, treatment modalities, and patient-reported outcomes across the same period. Results: A total of 3110 publications were identified, with the annual output showing substantial growth, peaking in 2021. The leading contributors were the United States, China, and the United Kingdom, with prominent institutions like Imperial College London and Mayo Clinic being notable contributors. The analysis of key journals revealed a strong presence of Phlebology and The Journal of Vascular Surgery. Keyword analysis highlighted ongoing interest in “endovenous laser ablation” and “compression therapy,” while emerging topics such as “pelvic congestion syndrome,” “cyanoacrylate closure,” and “patient-reported outcomes” are gaining attention. The clinical trial review showed a steady rise in studies, particularly between 2014 and 2024, with a notable peak around 2015. Randomized controlled trials dominated, focusing on minimally invasive techniques such as endovenous laser ablation, RFA, and tissue adhesives. Geographic distribution aligned with the bibliometric analysis, with dominant contributions from the United States, China, and Europe. The primary focus of these trials included efficacy, safety, recurrence, and patient-centered outcomes, with a growing emphasis on long-term effects and the use of innovative devices. Conclusion: Over the past decade, research on varicose vein treatment has seen substantial progress, driven by developments in minimally invasive technologies and a patient-focused approach. The combined bibliometric and clinical trial analyses highlight a continuing trend toward personalized, tech-enabled therapies. Integrating these insights will be crucial for guiding future research towards sustained efficacy and individualized care strategies.
Mao et al. (Fri,) studied this question.