# A Bibliometric Analysis of Strabismus Research Literature: Strabismus Research Trends

## TL;DR

This paper analyzes global strabismus research trends from 1995 to 2025, showing growth in publications and shifts in research focus.

## Contribution

The study provides an updated bibliometric analysis of strabismus research, highlighting emerging trends and geographic shifts.

## Key findings

- China has surpassed the U.S. in annual strabismus research output since 2023.
- Emerging research areas include digital screen exposure and AI in diagnostics.
- Keywords like 'intermittent exotropia' and 'surgical outcomes' remain central to the field.

## Abstract

Background: Strabismus, a common ocular disorder marked by misalignment of
the visual axes, can impair depth perception and visual function, while also
affecting facial appearance and psychosocial wellbeing. In recent years, the
field has seen a growing body of research focusing on its pathogenesis, risk
factors, and therapeutic approaches. However, the literature is still
fragmented, making it difficult to assess overarching trends. Therefore, a
comprehensive bibliometric analysis is needed to understand research
developments and identify emerging hotspots in this domain.

Materials and Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer
and CiteSpace on 6,540 English-language articles and reviews related to
strabismus, published between 1995 and 2025, and retrieved from the Web of
Science Core Collection (WOSCC).

Results: The updated analysis revealed consistent growth in publication
output, with particularly rapid expansion in recent years. While the United
States remained a key contributor, China has overtaken the U.S. in annual
output since 2023. Keyword co-occurrence and burst analysis identified both
long-standing research interests (e.g., intermittent exotropia [IXT], AACE,
surgical outcomes) and newer focus areas such as digital screen exposure,
artificial intelligence in diagnostics, and individualized surgical
planning.

Conclusion: This study provides an updated and comprehensive bibliometric
evaluation of global strabismus research through 2025. The results highlight
evolving academic contributions, changing geographical trends, and shifting
research priorities, offering guidance for future investigations and
clinical advancements.