Bibliometric and Knowledge-Mapping Analysis of Induced Membrane (Masquelet) Technique in Bone Infection

=0.827) indicates the field is transitioning from a period of novel expansion into clinical maturation. Geographically, France pioneered the foundational high-impact literature, whereas China has recently experienced an exponential surge in publication volume, albeit operating largely within domestic research silos with limited international crosstalk. Author co-citation algorithms unmasked three distinct theoretical pillars driving the field: the foundational anatomical and physiological conceptualization of the induced membrane, the ongoing clinical dialectic against distraction osteogenesis (the Ilizarov bone transport paradigm), and the rigorous integration of classical Cierny-Mader osteomyelitis principles. Crucially, thematic mapping and Sankey evolution revealed a profound clinical paradigm shift. Early historical enthusiasm for biological modifiers has been aggressively replaced by contemporary pragmatic limb salvage strategies (2022-2026), heavily characterized by burst keywords such as flap and amputation. Bibliometric analysis reveals that IMT research has evolved from early technique validation into a core strategy for complex multidisciplinary extremity salvage. Current frontiers emphasize aggressive infection eradication and massive composite defect management. Future advancements necessitate transnational multicenter trials to establish standardized clinical protocols.