Mapping the Care Literature in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Device: A Bibliometric Analysis

ABSTRACT Background As left ventricular assist device (LVAD) use expands, multidisciplinary care has become increasingly important. This study aimed to analyze the literature on LVAD patient care using bibliometric methods and identify publication trends, influential contributors, research themes, international collaborations, and future research areas. Methods and Results Publications indexed in Web of Science up to July 3, 2026, were analyzed using Biblioshiny in the Bibliometrix R package. Based on predefined eligibility criteria, 207 English‐language articles published between 1997 and 2026 were included. The annual publication growth rate was 3.86%, with an average of 17.94 citations per article. Publication output peaked in 2024 ( n = 20). The most productive journals were ASAIO Journal and Heart & Lung ( n = 15 each), while McIlvennan CK, Allen LA, Thompson JS, Matlock DD, and Grady KL were the most prolific authors. Keyword Plus analysis highlighted heart failure, LVAD, quality of life, mechanical circulatory support, and outcomes. Thematic analysis identified mechanical circulatory support and outcomes as well‐developed research areas, while quality of life, LVAD, and heart failure formed the field's conceptual foundation. The United States was the leading contributor, followed by Italy, Japan, Germany, and Canada. Conclusion LVAD research has evolved from a predominantly device‐ and outcome‐focused approach toward holistic, patient‐centered care encompassing caregiver support, self‐care, palliative care, and decision‐making. Patient experience, communication, decision‐making, heart transplantation, and mortality remain areas requiring further research.