Collaboration and Innovation: A Bibliometric Study of the Rise in MMA Embolization in Neurosurgery

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a common neurosurgical condition in the elderly, often resulting from minor head trauma. Traditional surgical treatments such as burr-hole drainage carry recurrence rates of 10–20% and significant risks in older patients, especially those on anticoagulation therapy. Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative, aiming to reduce blood flow to the dura and thereby promote hematoma resolution and lower recurrence. We conducted a bibliometric analysis of publications on MMA embolization for cSDH up to December 2023. The analysis shows a sharp increase in research activity over the past decade. North America, Japan, and Europe are leading contributors, with collaborative networks forming among major institutions. Key journals in neurosurgery and neurointervention have published much of this research, and author collaborations are extensive. Frequently used keywords such as “recurrence” and “treatment outcome” reflect an emphasis on reducing rebleeding and improving patient outcomes. In conclusion, MMA embolization is rapidly gaining attention as a promising treatment for cSDH. While early results are favorable and multi-center efforts are expanding the evidence base, further research is needed to establish long-term efficacy, optimize patient selection, and standardize techniques.