August 2026, Volume 4, Issue 8

Author

Raju Vaishya, Abhishek Vaish, Luise Schafer and Filippo Migliorini

Abstract

Purpose: Research in orthopaedics is constantly evolving. Bibliometric analysis of highly cited papers helps researchers trace past developments and identify future directions in their fields. In 2017, Google released a bibliometric measurement service named Google Scholar Classic Papers (GSCP), based on citation analysis. One listed subject category was "Orthopaedic Medicine & Surgery." This study aims to determine the main characteristics of GSCP in musculoskeletal medicine. Methods: In November 2024, GSCP ranked topics related to Orthopaedic Medicine and Surgery, selecting the 10 most cited papers for further review. Points of interest included citation analyses, study design, journal type, and publishing countries. Results: Six categories emerged. Radiology & Imaging and Rheumatology ranked highest, with average citations of 1,698.1 and 1,451.1, respectively. Orthopaedic Medicine & Surgery and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery averaged 671.6 and 290.2 citations. Citations for classic Orthopaedic papers ranged from 518 to 884 (2006-2016) and increased between 2017 and 2024 (858 to 1,423). The 10 most cited papers were published in high-impact journals, with 80% originating in the USA, and 39.1% of authors also based there. Conclusion: Orthopaedic Medicine and Surgery had fewer citations compared to other medical specialities. Citations grew significantly after 2017, underscoring the field's research importance. Level of evidence: IV