Mapping the landscape of transplant research: a bibliometric study of colombian centers (2013-2024)

Resumen

Introduction. Despite the critical importance of organ transplantation as a therapeutic strategy for end-stage organ failure, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the research landscape in this field in Colombia. This study aims to perform a bibliometric analysis of the literature on solid organ transplants published in Colombia.

Methods. A bibliometric analysis of transplant publications from Colombian centers between 2013 and 2024 was conducted, excluding conferences, abstracts and letters to the editor. Databases as PubMed, LILACS, Embase, and Scielo were accessed through a systematic review including the MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) term “transplant” and a Colombian affiliation was required. Two researchers independently reviewed the results. Variables such as authors’ names, affiliations, journal impact factor, co-author count, and citation numbers were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Bibliometrix R-package for quantitative and visual data.

Results. Search engines provided 1,898 articles, and only 292 met the inclusion criteria. Scientific production has increased, peaking in 2021 indicating a growing body of research. Key journals included Transplantation Proceedings and Biomedica. Prominent authors like Piñero F and Silva M had significant impact, and Brazil and Argentina were major collaborators. The main research themes were kidney and liver transplantation, with notable attention to donor selection in recent years.

Conclusion. This bibliometric analysis provides insights into the state of transplant research in Colombia, aiming to enhance regional health outcomes through collaborative efforts. The study highlights the need for further research to address the identified gaps and challenges.