Global research trends in robotic applications in cardiovascular medicine: a bibliometric analysis

This study aimed to analyze global research trends in robotic applications in cardiovascular medicine. Robotic technologies have been increasingly integrated into cardiovascular medicine, providing enhanced precision, improved visualization, and reduced operator-related risks. Despite growing interest in this field, comprehensive evaluations of global research trends remain limited. In this bibliometric study, publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2019 and 2025 were systematically analyzed, and 261 original articles meeting predefined criteria were included. Bibliometric analyses were carried out using VOSviewer and Biblioshiny to evaluate publication trends, citation dynamics, leading sources, and collaboration patterns. Scientific output showed a steady upward trajectory over time, with a more pronounced increase after 2021 and reaching its peak in 2025. The highest average citation rate was observed in 2024. Journal of Robotic Surgery and Journal of Cardiac Surgery were identified as the most productive journals. The United States was the leading contributor in terms of both publication volume and citation impact and also played a central role in international collaborations. Keyword analysis showed that research activity was primarily focused on robotic surgery, minimally invasive surgery, coronary artery bypass grafting, and percutaneous coronary intervention. Overall, robotic applications in cardiovascular medicine represent a rapidly expanding research area characterized by increasing scientific output and growing international collaboration. The concentration of publications in specific journals and the prominence of leading countries suggest a developing and increasingly structured research landscape.