Abstract
BACKGROUND: The application of digital technology in jaw reconstruction is clinically significant as it enhances surgical precision and patient outcomes. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to explore global research trends, hotspots, and future directions in the application of digital technology for jaw reconstruction. METHODS: This study employs a bibliometric analysis design, utilizing a retrospective approach. The data were sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, focusing on publications related to digital technology in jaw reconstruction from 1995 to 2024. The final sample includes 1069 articles authored by 4781 authors from 3081 institutions. Data analyses were conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package "Bibliometrix." RESULTS: The analysis revealed a total of 1069 articles, with publication trends showing a peak in 2022. China produced the most articles, while the United States led in citations. The most productive institutions were based in Italy, Germany, and China, and key contributing authors included Marchetti Claudio and Ciocca Leonardo. Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery had the highest H-index among journals. Keyword co-occurrence revealed hotspots like "implants" and "computer-aided design," while burst terms such as "virtual surgical planning" and "3D printing" signaled emerging frontiers. CONCLUSION: This bibliometric analysis examined the global research landscape on digital technology in jaw reconstruction, identifying key developments such as rapid prototyping, virtual surgical planning, and 3D printing. Future research should focus on integrating these technologies into clinical workflows, reducing costs, improving training, and addressing regulatory challenges.