Combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Bibliometric Analysis

Background: Increasingly, studies have indicated that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plus transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has better efficacy and lower side effects for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, there is a notable absence of visual evidence within the field of TCM plus TACE in HCC. Therefore, this study aimed to utilize bibliometric technology to visualize the research knowledge structure and identify emerging hotspots of TCM combined with TACE in HCC. Methods: The publications relating to TCM plus TACE on HCC published up to October 17, 2025 were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R-bibliometrix. Results: A total of 399 publications were included in the analysis. The number of related publications and citations has steadily increased. China has established itself as the leading contributor to the literature in this field, with significant contributions also emanating from Japan and the USA. Among institutional contributors, the Sun Yat Sen University has demonstrated particular prominence in publication output. World Journal of Gastroenterology is the leading journal in this field. Cluster analysis indicated that current research hotspots include the systematic review and meta-analysis of TCM plus TACE on HCC, clinical prognosis, and pharmacological mechanisms. Trend analysis revealed that AI-based systems for diagnosis and management represent an emerging research frontier in this field. Conclusion: This work serves as a framework for understanding the evolution and frontiers of the field, thereby paving the way for further scientific and clinical advances in the application of TCM with TACE for HCC. Consequently, more HCC patients can benefit from the methods of TCM plus TACE. Keywords: traditional Chinese medicine, transarterial chemoembolization, hepatocellular carcinoma, bibliometric analysis