Analysis of the research trends and hotspots of anterolateral thigh flap based on web of science database

doi:10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2025.2.20

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Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy ›› 2025, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (2) : 234-239. DOI: 10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2025.2.20

Analysis of the research trends and hotspots of anterolateral thigh flap based on web of science database

Yu Jianfeng ¹, Dai Jingyu², Zhang Xinxin², Mao Yihua², Cui Huairui², Ding Maochao ², Zhao Lina²*

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Abstract

Objective To analyze the research trends and hotspots of anterolateral thigh flap based on Web of Science database. Methods A thematic search was performed in the Web of Science Core Collection across all time periods. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using Web of Science tools, and research hotspots and trends were analyzed via keyword co-occurrence and cluster analysis using CiteSpace 6.3.R3. Results A total of 3,009 relevant articles were retrieved, with 2,869 included in general statistical analysis and 2,652 in knowledge graph analysis. Publications on the anterolateral thigh flap have increased yearly, with China and the United States leading in publication volume. Keywords co-occurrence analysis indicates that “neck," "complications," "free flap," and "donor site morbidity" were strongly associated and frequently mentioned. Cluster analysis identified eight main research focuses: "perforator flap, free flap, one-stage reconstruction, mandibular reconstruction, pharyngoesophageal reconstruction, neck, lower extremity, hemifacial atrophy." Burst term analysis highlighted "neck defects, soft tissue flap, and anatomy" as the most active research areas, with "lower extremity, radiotherapy, soft tissue defects, and vascular anatomy" emerging as recent focuses. Conclusion Chinese researchers have made significant contributions to the study of the anterolateral thigh flap. The research focus has primarily been on neck tissue injury repair, while the research content has centered on the application of anterolateral perforator flaps. Recent research hotspots have included lower extremity reconstruction, radiotherapy, soft tissue defect repair, and vascular anatomy.

Key words

Anterolateral thigh flap; / / Bibliometrics; / / Tissue defect reconstruction

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Yu Jianfeng, Dai Jingyu, Zhang Xinxin, Mao Yihua, Cui Huairui, Ding Maochao , Zhao Lina. Analysis of the research trends and hotspots of anterolateral thigh flap based on web of science database[J]. Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy. 2025, 43(2): 234-239 https://doi.org/10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2025.2.20

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