Evolving Trends and Collaborative Networks in Postoperative Delirium Research: A Two-Decade Bibliometric Analysis.

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative delirium (POD) remains a prevalent, complex complication in hospitalized older adults, yet its multifactorial pathogenesis and optimal management strategies elude definitive characterization. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of POD research over the past two decades to identify publication trends, collaborative networks, and major thematic areas.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic bibliometric analysis of English-language POD publications in the Web of Science Core Collection from January 2004 to August 2024. A rigorous multistage screening process was implemented using advanced analytical tools, including CiteSpace and VOSviewer.

RESULTS

The analysis encompassed 1937 articles from 65 countries, with annual publication output accelerating significantly after 2019. China ranked first in publication volume, whereas the United States had the highest citation count and total link strength, indicating greater centrality in the international collaboration network. Co-citation and keyword analyses identified four major research domains: characteristics, mechanisms, prediction, and interventions. Recent growth has concentrated in prediction-oriented and biomarker-related research.

CONCLUSION

This bibliometric study elucidates the dynamic evolution of POD research, highlighting growing interest in predictive analytics and mechanistic biomarker research as potential priorities for future investigation. These findings not only inform targeted future investigations but also guide the development of interdisciplinary strategies to improve diagnostic precision and therapeutic interventions for acute neurocognitive dysfunction in older surgical populations.