Global evolution of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research (1990-2025): a bibliometric and visualization…

StudyEuropean spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society· Jul 2026

Global evolution of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research (1990-2025): a bibliometric and visualization analysis.

Xiaoming Bao, Yujian Zhang, Xiaoping Zhang … Bo Liao

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Pediatric OrthopedicsStudyQ1IF 3.2

United States produced the largest single share of global adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research.

Global evolution of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research (1990-2025): a bibliometric and visualization analysis.

Xiaoming Bao … Bo Liao

European spine journal · Jul 2026 · Q1 in Orthopedics

Background

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) is the most common spinal deformity affecting adolescents, yet comprehensive analysis of global research trends remains limited.

Purpose

This study aims to identify research hotspots, collaboration patterns, and emerging frontiers to guide future research priorities.

Methods

Publications on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis from 1990 to October 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection.

n = 3,816 publications

Results

us researchers led the world in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis output, publishing more than any other country

United States

27.78%

China

25.86%

More results

S. leads in total citations, China suggests the most rapid recent growth.

Research hotspots may have evolved from foundational classification systems and instrumentation to evidence-based conservative management.

More results

Recent frontiers (2022-2025) indicate a paradigm shift toward precision medicine, characterized by the emergence of "vertebral body tethering" (VBT) and "artificial intelligence" (AI).

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Conclusion · 1 of 3

Global adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research appears to have evolved from descriptive classification and static surgical correction to a multidisciplinary science focused on physiological preservation and predictive modeling.

Conclusion · 2 of 3

Despite strong regional hubs, establishing global standards requires enhanced international integration.

Conclusion · 3 of 3

Future priorities lie in validating emerging non-fusion techniques and AI applications through large-scale, cross-cultural collaborative studies.

Global evolution of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research (1990-2025): a bibliometric and visualization analysis.

Global evolution of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis research (1990-2025): a bibliometric and visualization analysis.

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