A bibliometric analysis of ultrasound-based evaluation in renal transplantation.

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>Ultrasound is a widely used and effective imaging modality for evaluation in renal transplantation. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the research landscape and emerging trends in the use of ultrasound for renal transplant assessment.<h4>Methods</h4>Relevant articles published between January 2010 and June 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS; Science Citation Index Expanded) and PubMed [randomized controlled trial (RCT)] databases using the keywords "ultrasound" and "renal transplant". Publications were screened by article type, language, abstract, and keywords. Bibliometric and visualization analyses were performed using VOSviewer and the bibliometrix R package.<h4>Results</h4>A total of 268 original research articles were included. The analysis demonstrated a notable rise in research activity since 2020, accompanied by extensive international collaboration, with the United States identified as the leading contributor. <i>Transplantation Proceedings</i> was the most prolific journal, while <i>Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation</i> had the highest citation count. Fananapazir G and Haberal M have the highest number of publications, while Brabrand K and Midtvedt K have the highest number of citations. Zhengzhou University was among the most active Chinese institutions in recent years. Machine learning (ML), shear wave elastography (SWE), and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) have emerged as active research topics in the field.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Ultrasound remains a key research focus in the imaging evaluation of renal transplants, with substantial potential for future advancement. The increasing integration of ML with ultrasound-based techniques represents a promising direction, with the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making in renal transplant assessment.