Bibliometric analysis of renal function preservation in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: research trends, functional outcomes, and CKD-related perspectives.
Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is an important nephron-sparing approach for renal tumors, with increasing emphasis on postoperative renal functional preservation. Preservation of renal function is clinically relevant in patients with reduced renal reserve or factors associated with future renal decline. However, the global research landscape and emerging trends in this field remain unclear. This study performed a bibliometric analysis of publications related to robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and renal function preservation, with emphasis on functional outcomes and CKD-related concepts identified within the literature. Publications from 2008 to 2026 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection on May 10, 2026. Only English-language articles and reviews were included. Data were analyzed using Excel, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Charticulator, and Scimago Graphica. A total of 276 publications were included, comprising 245 articles and 31 reviews. Publication output showed steady growth, with peaks in 2017 and 2022. Urology and nephrology were the dominant category. The United States led in publications, citations, and H-index, followed by Italy and China, with collaboration centered mainly on the United States and Italy. Cleveland Clinic and Temple University were leading institutions. Keyword analysis identified partial nephrectomy, ischemia, warm ischemia time, eGFR, small renal mass, and trifecta as major themes. The field has evolved from technical exploration toward ischemia reduction, nephron preservation, standardized outcome reporting, and individualized risk stratification. Future studies should prioritize prospective multicenter designs and standardized renal functional endpoints.