Evolution of Endothelialised Vascular Grafts: A Bibliometric Analysis for Surgical Innovation.

INTRODUCTION

Rapid endothelialisation is crucial for developing hemocompatible vascular grafts for coronary artery disease. This bibliometric analysis maps the research landscape of endothelial cells and endothelialisation in tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) to identify evolving trends and surgical relevance.

METHODS

We analysed 1991 publications (2000-2024) from Web of Science using Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Patent and clinical trial data were obtained from Lens.org and ClinicalTrials.gov.

RESULTS

Publication output peaked in 2016 (119 articles), then declined post-2020. The United States led in volume (559 articles; 34,186 citations), while Singapore had the highest citation impact (119.9 average citations). Core themes included endothelialisation, angiogenesis, mesenchymal stem cells, and vascular endothelial growth factor. Early focus on prostheses and in vitro models declined, while 3D bioprinting, gelMA scaffolds, and surface modification emerged. Surface modification was identified as the primary research hotspot, with small-diameter TEVGs remaining the central translational focus. Patent activity decreased notably after 2016, and no clinical trials specifically linking TEVGs with endothelial cells were identified.

CONCLUSION

Endothelialisation remains essential in TEVG research but is increasingly integrated into broader scaffold fabrication and validation strategies. The field is shifting toward biofabrication approaches like 3D bioprinting and functional evaluation platforms. However, significant translational gaps persist between laboratory research and clinical implementation.