Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 100 Cited Studies on Platelet-Rich Concentrates in Regenerative Endodontics.

Abstract

Scaffold systems have been widely investigated in regenerative endodontic therapy (RET) because they may facilitate cell proliferation, growth factor delivery and tissue regeneration in immature teeth with pulp necrosis. Platelet-rich scaffolds contain high concentrations of growth factors, promoting cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. However, variations in preparation protocols make it difficult to identify key trends. This study aimed to evaluate bibliometric data from the 100 most-cited articles on platelet-rich concentrates in RET. Articles were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and ranked by citation count. Data regarding publication year, study design, citation counts, journals, authorship, institutional and geographic distribution, keywords and type of platelet concentrate were extracted. Data were visualised using descriptive outputs, and a negative binomial regression model was applied to evaluate the association between citation counts, publication year and platelet concentrate type. Most publications were from 2017 to 2019, with narrative reviews having the highest cumulative citation impact. The Journal of Endodontics was the leading publication source. China and the United States were the most influential countries. Regression modelling showed that studies combining platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) had higher predicted citation rates than those with PRP or PRF alone (rate ratios of 1.30 and 1.95, respectively). The upward trend over 2 decades shows progress in PRF-based scaffolds for RET. However, inconsistent reporting of platelet subtypes and protocols hinders clinical use. This study highlights key publications and trends, offering insights for future research in platelet-rich scaffolds for RET.