Influential literatures in periprosthetic infection following joint arthroplasty: A bibliometric review

Abstract

The objective of this bibliometric literature review was to identify and analyze the most frequently cited manuscripts on the topic of periprosthetic joint infection. Periprosthetic infection following joint arthroplasty is a complication leading to rising rates of mortality and increasing economic strain. No prior study has evaluated the most impactful literature on the topic of periprosthetic joint infection (“PJI”) in total hip and knee arthroplasty. Knowledge and appreciation of the most influential publications on this topic can guide and inspire future research endeavors. Using the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science database, the 50 most cited articles related to periprosthetic infection following joint arthroplasty were identified. Numerous metrics including citation frequency, year of publication, country of origin, level-of-evidence (LOE), article type, and contributing authors/institutions were recorded. The seven most cited articles (per year) during the past 10 years were also identified. The years of publications of the articles included in the final analysis ranged from 1969 to 2014. “Current concepts: Prosthetic-joint infections” by Zimmerli et al. was the most frequently cited article. Level of Evidence (“LOE”) of 2 and 3 were the most common. Clinical outcomes was the most common article type. Mayo Clinic and Thomas Jefferson University produced the most publications. Hanssen and Parvisi were the most productive authors. 2000–2009 ( n = 25) was the most prolific decade in terms of number of publications. Using citation analysis as an indication of influence, the most influential articles on periprosthetic joint infection were highlighted. Analysis of the most recognized publication on PJI provides an enhanced understanding of the diagnosis, treatment, and future research of PJI. Future studies may combine the search results of multiple databases including Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed to rectify any discrepancies in citation data and to capture additional literature on PJI.