Superb microvascular imaging in tumour detection: global trends and research gaps

ObjectiveTo investigate the extent of utilising superb microvascular imaging in the detection of tumours in the literature.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in the Scopus database from inception until May 2024, focusing on tumours in specific organs and excluding certain study designs to ensure clinical relevance. No restrictions were placed on language or publication date. Bibliometric analysis was performed using Scopus, bibliometrix R package, and VOSviewer software to assess publication trends, citation analysis, country productivity, authorship, and keyword frequency.ResultsThe search retrieved 144 documents published between 2015 and 2024, with a total of 2,072 citations and an average of 14.39 citations per document. The publication and citation trends showed that the number of publications has declined since 2021, along with a decrease in citations after 2018. China led in article production, followed by South Korea, Turkey, and Japan, with governmental sources playing a significant role in funding. Co-authorship analysis revealed limited international collaboration. Keyword analysis highlighted the prevalence of terms related to female, human, adult, sensitivity and specificity, and diagnostic imaging, with a focus on breast, thyroid, and liver cancers in superb microvascular imaging research.ConclusionResearch on the utilisation of superb microvascular imaging in tumour assessment within Western countries is imperative, given the current Asian-centric focus. International collaborations are crucial to assess the efficacy of superb microvascular imaging in tumour assessment. Additionally, a notable knowledge gap persists in tumour assessment beyond breast, thyroid, and liver cancers using superb microvascular imaging, warranting further investigation.