Bibliometric analysis of slope-correcting osteotomy in the context of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: key trends, contributors and themes

Abstract Purpose Posterior tibial slope (PTS) is a key risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft failure, prompting interest in slope-correcting osteotomy alongside ACL reconstruction (ACLR). This study mapped the literature on tibial osteotomy in relation to PTS and the ACL, a topic that, to the authors’ knowledge, has not previously been analysed bibliometrically. Methods The Web of Science Core Collection was searched on 15 March 2026 following the BIBLIO guideline. Publication trends, productivity, citations, thematic maps and co-citation networks were analysed with bibliometrix (v5.2.1), with a sensitivity analysis restricted to original research articles. Results Of 174 records, 151 were included (1993–2026): 73 original research articles, 42 reviews, 20 technique reports and 16 editorials or letters. Output rose from 10 publications in 2019 to 32 in 2025. The American Journal of Sports Medicine was the most productive and most cited journal ( n = 24; 1114 citations). Authors from 29 countries contributed, led by the USA ( n = 66), France ( n = 39) and Germany ( n = 30); collaborative publications were counted for each participating country. Co-citation analysis identified three interconnected clusters, and tibial deflexion osteotomy with ACLR was the principal motor theme. When the analysis was restricted to original research, nine of the 11 most cited publications remained among the 10 most cited. Conclusion Research on slope-correcting osteotomy in ACLR has grown rapidly and is concentrated in few journals and research groups. Highly cited work is predominantly biomechanical or retrospective, suggesting a need for standardised indications, validated PTS thresholds and prospective comparative studies.