The 50 Most Cited Original Studies on Acromioclavicular Joint Reconstruction: A Bibliometric and Study-Quality Analysis.

BACKGROUND

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) reconstruction has been widely studied; however, the methodological quality of its most cited research remains uncertain. Citation-based analyses have emphasized the influence of frequently cited studies.

PURPOSE: To (1) identify the 50 most cited original studies on ACJ reconstruction and assess their methodological quality using established scoring systems, and (2) explore correlations between study quality, citation count, and citation density.

STUDY

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

A Web of Science search (1946-August 2024) identified publications on ACJ reconstruction. The 50 most cited articles were analyzed for bibliographic details, citation metrics, and level of evidence (LOE). Clinical studies were assessed using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS), Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS), and Methodological Quality for Clinical Studies of Radiologic Examinations (MQCSRE). Cadaveric studies were evaluated using the Biomechanics Objective Basic Science Quality Assessment Tool (BOBQAT).

RESULTS

The 50 most cited articles garnered 5918 citations, with a mean of 118 ± 62 citations per article. Most articles were published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, accounting for 56% of the total (n = 28). Clinical studies accounted for 66% (n = 33) of the articles, while cadaveric studies comprised 34% (n = 17). The United States was the leading contributor (44%; n = 22), followed by Germany (22%; n = 11). Significant correlations were observed between citation counts and the MINORS (r = 0.37; P < .05) scores and LOE (r = -0.37; P < .05). No significant correlations were found between citation counts and the MCMS (r = 0.24; P > .05), MQCSRE (r = 0.20; P > .05) or BOBQAT (r = -0.22; P > .05). Analysis of citation density indicated that recent decades (2011-2020) showed increased values, showing trends in research activity.

CONCLUSION

Study quality was partially correlated with citation counts among highly cited clinical studies on ACJ reconstruction. The overall methodological quality was moderate, highlighting the need for higher-level evidence. This article serves as a reference for key literature.