Unlocking a Novel Therapeutic Modality: Low-Intensity Transcranial Ultrasound as a Key to CNS Treatment — A Bibliometric and Systematic Review

Objectives: Over the past decade, low-intensity transcranial ultrasound stimulation (LITUS) has emerged as a promising non-invasive neuromodulation technique for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. This study aims to chart the current research landscape, uncover key trends and challenges, and offer a reference for future investigations. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we sourced data from 3 databases and included 454 literature. We conducted bibliometric analyses using R, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace to explore publication trends, journal/region contributions, keyword co-occurrence networks, research clusters, and emerging frontiers. Results: The United States, China, and South Korea were the most influential countries in the field, while Brain Stimulation was the leading journal. Keyword analysis revealed 7 research clusters, and burst-detection highlighted frontiers such as safety, thalamic stimulation, and frequency. The literature review shows that LITUS is an emerging field with therapeutic promise, but faces challenges in areas like safety and ultrasound parameter standardization. Conclusion: As the first comprehensive bibliometric and systematic review of LITUS in CNS disorders treatment, this work presents a global picture of publication trends, hotspots, and obstacles-providing valuable guidance for future research and clinical translation of LITUS.