Mapping the landscape of locally advanced colon cancer research: a 30-year bibliometric perspective

Our study aimed to perform a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to investigate the evolution of research in locally advanced colon cancer (LACC) over the past 30 years. This study examined 206 articles from the Science Citation Index Expanded within the Web of Science database, spanning from 1991 to 2023. It encompassed a detailed review of publication trends, geographic distribution, institutional contributions, authorship patterns, and keyword analysis. Publications in LACC research saw a substantial increase in publications starting in 2016, with China emerging as the primary contributor, followed by the USA and Japan. Our analysis revealed a shift in research focus from traditional management to advanced treatment approaches, including neoadjuvant therapy and complete mesocolic excision. Keywords, such as "carcinomatosis", "systemic chemotherapy", and "cytoreductive surgery" have become prominent, reflecting evolving research hotspots. However, the low centrality among top authors indicates a preference for independent research over collaborative efforts. This bibliometric study highlights significant advancements and shifts in LACC research over the last 30 years, highlighting an increasing focus on advanced therapeutic approaches. Enhancing international collaboration is essential to enhance LACC research, potentially improving treatments and patient outcomes. Our study provides a foundational reference for guiding future research and fostering collaborative efforts in the field.