Global Research Trends in Pediatric Craniofacial Trauma and Traumatic Brain Injury: A Bibliometric Analysis of 1271 Publications (2016–2026)

Abstract

Introduction: Pediatric craniofacial trauma, characterized by forceful blows or injuries to the facial bones or fragile skull of a child, can present symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is a key player in the increased mortality rate of pediatric populations. Through a bibliometric analysis, this study aims to assess and understand the research landscape of pediatric craniofacial trauma and TBI. Methods: Using the Web of Science Core Collection, a search was conducted on June 15, 2026, for publications dated June 1, 2016, through June 1, 2026. The search combined pediatric, craniofacial-trauma, and traumatic-brain-injury concept blocks using Boolean operators. No restrictions other than publication date were applied. Web of Science was used to summarize annual publication output, authors, journals, and research categories, and VOSviewer was used for coauthorship and keyword network analyses. Results: A total of 1271 publications were identified. The bar graph from Web of Science determined that the peak year of publications regarding the topic of pediatric craniofacial trauma and TBI was in 2022. The country publication network outlines that the United States, England, and Canada were the leading countries of publication. Conclusion: Research on pediatric craniofacial trauma and TBI has continued to stay a topic of interest over the last 10 years, but continued collaboration and investment in longitudinal studies will further the knowledge into long-term effects and potential consequences.