A bibliometric analysis of the top 50 most cited articles on iatrogenic nerve injuries of the upper limb following surgery
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Background Iatrogenic nerve injuries (INIs) of the upper limb have profound impacts on patients their pain, functionality and quality of life.
Objectives This study aims to identify and analyse the most cited publications on those iatrogenic injuries to elicit trends, thematic analysis, and reduce risk.
Methodology A bibliometric analysis was performed using the Web of Science database. Search terms included ‘Iatrogenic,’ ‘Upper Limb,’ ‘Nerve,’ and ‘Injury.’ The top 50 cited peer-reviewed publications were ranked by citation count and analysed for publication year, journal, country of origin, institutional affiliations, authorship, and research focus. Trends in diagnostic and management practices were also evaluated.
Results The most cited articles, published between 1995 and 2022, peaked in publication frequency in 2010 and 2017 (n=4 each). Citation counts ranged from 7 to 260, with a median of 26.5 (± 15.0, 95% CI: 16–75). These articles were featured in 44 journals. The United States emerged as the leading contributor in both volume and impact (n=16). Prominent themes included Supracondylar Humerus Fractures (n=21) and Humeral Shaft Fractures (n=10), alongside mentions of Diaphyseal Humeral Fractures and Shoulder Surgery (n=4 each). Ulnar Nerve injuries were the most frequently discussed (n=23), followed by injuries involving Multiple Nerves (n=18) and the Radial Nerve (n=14).
Conclusions This bibliometric analysis highlights key studies on iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries, identifies trends and gaps, and lays a foundation for evidence-based protocols. It also serves as a guide for future research and collaborative efforts to improve prevention and treatment.
Objectives This study aims to identify and analyse the most cited publications on those iatrogenic injuries to elicit trends, thematic analysis, and reduce risk.
Methodology A bibliometric analysis was performed using the Web of Science database. Search terms included ‘Iatrogenic,’ ‘Upper Limb,’ ‘Nerve,’ and ‘Injury.’ The top 50 cited peer-reviewed publications were ranked by citation count and analysed for publication year, journal, country of origin, institutional affiliations, authorship, and research focus. Trends in diagnostic and management practices were also evaluated.
Results The most cited articles, published between 1995 and 2022, peaked in publication frequency in 2010 and 2017 (n=4 each). Citation counts ranged from 7 to 260, with a median of 26.5 (± 15.0, 95% CI: 16–75). These articles were featured in 44 journals. The United States emerged as the leading contributor in both volume and impact (n=16). Prominent themes included Supracondylar Humerus Fractures (n=21) and Humeral Shaft Fractures (n=10), alongside mentions of Diaphyseal Humeral Fractures and Shoulder Surgery (n=4 each). Ulnar Nerve injuries were the most frequently discussed (n=23), followed by injuries involving Multiple Nerves (n=18) and the Radial Nerve (n=14).
Conclusions This bibliometric analysis highlights key studies on iatrogenic upper limb nerve injuries, identifies trends and gaps, and lays a foundation for evidence-based protocols. It also serves as a guide for future research and collaborative efforts to improve prevention and treatment.
Date Acceptance
2025-09-10
Citation
Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury
ISSN
1749-7221
Publisher
Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Journal / Book Title
Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury
Copyright Statement
© Copyright. This paper is embargoed until publication. Once published the Version of Record (VoR) will be available on immediate open access.
Publication Status
Accepted