Digestive system autotransplantation has emerged as an advanced surgical technique, demonstrating significant potential in treating complex digestive system diseases in recent years. This technique includes autologous liver transplantation, pancreatic transplantation, and small intestine transplantation (1–3). Traditional digestive surgeries, such as liver resection, pancreatic resection, and small intestine resection, have achieved some success in treating tumors and other diseases. However, for tumors located in complex anatomical areas adjacent to critical blood vessels, the surgical risks and difficulties are extremely high, often rendering them “unresectable” (4, 5). These unresectable tumors, due to their special locations, make it challenging to completely remove the tumor without damaging vital structures during surgery, thus increasing the risk of postoperative recurrence and complications (6). Advances in surgical techniques, such as vascular occlusion, vena cava shunting, and ex vivo resection, have made autotransplantation feasible (7). This technique combines traditional resection and organ transplantation, involving the removal, repair, and reconstruction of the entire organ ex vivo in cold preservation, and then reimplanting the unaffected part of the organ (8–10). The development of this technique not only provides new treatment options but also offers surgeons more choices when dealing with complex cases.

Autologous liver transplantation combines the advantages of traditional liver resection and liver transplantation. It provides a new treatment strategy, especially for complex conditions such as multiple liver tumors or hepatic echinococcosis (2, 11). Compared to whole liver transplantation, autotransplantation does not require a donor liver, avoiding the risks of donor shortage and long-term postoperative immunosuppression, while also reducing the risk of disease progression and waiting time for a donor (12). This technique allows for more precise removal of lesions, reducing the risk of uncontrollable bleeding during surgery, increasing the surgical space for complex vascular reconstruction, and minimizing ischemic damage. Despite these advantages, digestive system autotransplantation is highly challenging, requiring a highly skilled surgical team, and has not yet been widely standardized in clinical practice (13, 14). This partly explains why this technique has not been widely adopted. Successful implementation of autotransplantation requires a surgical team with high professional skills and extensive experience, along with precise preoperative assessments and intraoperative support. However, with the development of preoperative three-dimensional image reconstruction technology and liver indocyanine green clearance technology, preoperative estimation of the remnant liver volume has become possible (15–17). This pre-assessment technology, through precise measurement and simulation of intraoperative conditions, greatly improves the safety and success rate of the surgery (11, 18, 19). Hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) is a severe parasitic infection often leading to extensive liver tissue destruction. Traditional surgery struggles to completely remove the diseased tissue, while autotransplantation provides a new possibility for radical treatment (11). Furthermore, in treating hepatobiliary malignancies, autotransplantation also shows significant advantages by completely removing lesions and preserving as much healthy tissue as possible, significantly improving patient prognosis (20).

Autologous pancreatic transplantation shows unique advantages in treating chronic pancreatitis (CP) and preventing postoperative diabetes (21). Chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic tumors pose significant therapeutic challenges due to their complex anatomical structures and the essential endocrine function of the pancreas (22). Traditional surgical interventions, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy, can relieve symptoms and remove tumors but often result in substantial loss of pancreatic function, leading to diabetes (23). Autologous pancreatic transplantation, particularly autologous islet transplantation, offers a promising alternative. This technique involves isolating islet cells from the resected pancreas and then autotransplanting them into the liver or other suitable locations in the patient's body. This method helps preserve endocrine function and reduce the risk of postoperative diabetes (21). Autologous islet transplantation is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing total pancreatectomy (TP) for chronic pancreatitis, as it can significantly improve their quality of life by maintaining insulin independence or reducing insulin demand (24, 25). The technical complexity of autologous pancreatic transplantation lies in the isolation and transplantation of islet cells. Advances in islet isolation techniques and immunosuppressive regimens have improved the outcomes of this surgery, making it a viable option for a broader range of patients (25). Preoperative planning, including imaging studies and functional assessments, is crucial for optimizing results and reducing complications.

Autologous small intestine transplantation is primarily used to treat extensive small intestine diseases, such as short bowel syndrome (SBS) and certain complex intestinal tumors (26, 27). The small intestine is crucial for nutrient absorption, and its extensive resection can lead to short bowel syndrome (SBS), characterized by malnutrition, diarrhea, and severe nutritional deficiencies (28). Traditional surgical treatments for SBS are usually limited and may not restore sufficient intestinal function (29). Autologous small intestine transplantation has emerged as a new approach to address these challenges. This surgery involves the resection of the affected small intestine, ex vivo treatment, and reimplantation into the patient's body. By preserving and reusing the patient's own small intestine, this technique aims to restore the continuity and function of the intestine, thereby improving the patient's nutritional status and quality of life. Advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care have enhanced the feasibility and effectiveness of autologous small intestine transplantation. Preoperative evaluation, including detailed imaging studies and functional tests, is crucial for ensuring surgical success. Additionally, postoperative care, including nutritional support and monitoring of complications, plays a key role in the long-term success of this approach (30, 31).

In summary, digestive system autotransplantation, as a cutting-edge surgical technique, is gradually becoming an important means of addressing complex digestive system diseases. Through continuous technological innovation and accumulation of clinical practice, this technique is expected to be more widely applied in the future, bringing hope for recovery to more patients. With the strengthening of global medical exchanges and cooperation, the promotion and standardization of autotransplantation technology will be further enhanced, ultimately benefiting a broad range of patients. Although research on digestive system autotransplantation is relatively in-depth, quantitative data is still lacking. Despite some scholars discussing studies with conflicting data through meta-analyses, the depth of discussion is relatively limited and subjective (32–34). Moreover, many scholars' research on digestive system autotransplantation remains at the level of literature review and personal clinical experience summaries (9, 35).

Bibliometrics is a tool for quantitatively analyzing literature, which can reveal research hotspots, frontier dynamics, and research trends in a particular field (36). Through statistical analysis of relevant literature, we can understand the research activity, main contributors, and collaboration relationships among research institutions in the field, thereby providing a scientific basis for future research. Bibliometrics, through quantitative analysis of a large amount of literature data, helps researchers identify and evaluate scientific research trends and patterns. It typically involves several analyses: counting publications over time to gauge research activity and trends; identifying research hotspots through keyword and subject term co-occurrence; evaluating impact via citation analysis; and examining collaboration networks to understand relationships among research institutions and authors. Through these analyses, we can systematically review the research status of the field of digestive system autotransplantation, identify key researchers and institutions, understand research hotspots and trends. This comprehensive overview will provide valuable insights for future research directions and promote better planning and collaboration within the scientific community.

In this study, we aim to systematically review and identify the key areas of focus and emerging patterns in the field of digestive system autotransplantation. Using visualization tools VOSviewer and CiteSpace, we reviewed and analyzed relevant literature from 2004 to 2024. We conducted a systematic analysis of the current state and evolving patterns in digestive system autotransplantation using bibliometric methods. Through these analyses, we can systematically review the research status of the field of digestive system autotransplantation, identify key researchers and institutions, understand research hotspots and trends. This comprehensive analysis will offer important perspectives for guiding future research directions and promote better planning and collaboration within the scientific community.

The Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database is known for its precise document type labeling, making it ideal for literature analysis. Thus, we selected this database for our search (37, 38). On May 22, 2024, we conducted a search in WoS for articles on digestive system autotransplantation published between 2004 and 2024. To ensure comprehensive coverage and minimize the risk of missing relevant literature, the search strategy incorporated a wide range of synonyms and related terms for “autotransplantation” and the specific digestive organs. The detailed search strategy, including the combination of keywords and operators used, is presented in Supplementary Table S1. The search formula included: ((((((((TS=(Autotransplantation)) OR TS=(“Autologous Transplantation”)) OR TS=(“Autologous Transplantations”)) OR TS=(“Transplantations, Autologous”)) OR TS=(Autografting)) OR TS=(Autograftings)) OR TS=(Autotransplantation)) OR TS=(Autotransplantations) AND ((((((((((TS=(Liver)) OR TS=(Livers)) OR TS=(Pancreas)) OR TS=(pancreatic)) OR TS=(“Intestine, Small”)) OR TS=(“Intestines, Small”)) OR TS=(“Small Intestines”)) OR TS=(“Small Intestine”))) OR TS=(intestine)) OR (((((((((((TS=(“autologous liver transplant”)) OR TS=(“autologous liver transplantation”)) OR TS=(“Autologous Pancreas Transplantation”)) OR TS=(“Autologous Pancreas Transplant”)) OR TS=(“autologous small intestine transplant”)) OR TS=(“Autologous small bowel transplantation”)) OR TS=(“intestinal autotransplantation”)) OR TS=(“Pancreas autotransplantation”)) OR TS=(“intestinal autotransplant”)) OR TS=(“Pancreas autotransplant”)) OR TS=(“Liver autotransplantation”)) OR TS=(“liver autotransplant”).

The criteria for selecting literature for this study were: (1) full-text publications on digestive system autotransplantation; (2) articles and reviews in English; and (3) publications from 2004 to 2024. Exclusion criteria included: (1) unrelated topics; and (2) conference abstracts, news, brief reports, etc. Plain text versions of the papers were extracted.

We utilized GraphPad Prism v8.0.2 for analyzing and plotting annual and national publication trends and proportions. Additionally, CiteSpace (v6.2.4R) and VOSviewer (v1.6.18) were employed to analyze the data and create visual representations of the scientific knowledge maps. Figure 1 shows the flow chart of the literature selection process.

From 2004 to 2024, the WoSCC database recorded a total of 748 publications on autologous transplantation in the digestive system, comprising 618 research articles and 130 reviews. These publications involved 49 different countries, 943 institutions, and 3,822 authors.

Since 2004, the annual number of published papers has shown a gradual rise (see Figure 2). This trend can be segmented into three phases: between 2004 and 2007, the yearly publication count was around 20, indicating slow growth and limited research interest; from 2008 to 2015, there was a steady increase in publications, peaking in 2015; post-2016, the number of publications started to decline gradually.

This study systematically retrieved and analyzed literature from the WoSCC database on autologous transplantation of the digestive system, comprehensively showcasing the research trends and academic influence in this field over the past two decades. Autologous transplantation of the digestive system is a significant surgical technique, particularly crucial in treating hepatic hydatid disease, chronic pancreatitis, and certain refractory digestive system diseases. This systematic review of the literature in this field helps understand its current research status, hotspots, and future development directions. The primary reason for selecting the WoSCC database for literature retrieval is its high accuracy in documenting literature types, providing comprehensive and detailed records. By retrieving relevant literature from 2004 to 2024, we ensured the completeness and timeliness of the data. The search strategy employed multiple keywords and synonyms to cover all relevant literature. The establishment of inclusion and exclusion criteria further enhanced the scientificity and rationality of literature screening, ensuring the quality and reliability of the data.

From the perspective of publication trends, since 2004, the number of publications on autologous transplantation of the digestive system has generally shown an upward trend, peaking between 2008 and 2015. This growth trend may reflect the continuous development of new technologies and treatment methods during this period. However, since 2016, the number of publications has declined, possibly due to a shift in research focus, the maturation of new technologies, and competition from other treatment methods. This change in trend suggests the need to pay attention to emerging hotspots and potential future development directions in this field.

Although the number of publications has decreased in recent years, it does not imply a reduction in the importance of autologous transplantation techniques for the digestive system. On the contrary, these techniques continue to play an indispensable role in clinical applications, providing solutions that other treatment methods cannot replace, especially in handling complex cases and improving patient survival quality. Therefore, future research should continue to focus on improving the operability and safety of these techniques, optimizing postoperative management strategies, and exploring new application scenarios to ensure patients receive the best treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Autologous liver transplantation is a crucial surgical technique, particularly suitable for patients who cannot undergo conventional liver transplantation. This technique is primarily used to treat diseases such as primary liver cancer, hepatic hydatid disease, and hepatic hemangioma (39, 40). A significant application of autologous liver transplantation involves liver resection, followed by ex vivo liver repair and subsequent reimplantation into the patient. Literature shows that autologous liver transplantation significantly improves patient survival rates and quality of life. However, the technique is complex, and the management of postoperative complications and long-term follow-up remain essential research directions.

Autologous pancreatic transplantation, mainly total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TP-IAT), plays a crucial role in treating chronic pancreatitis (41). This technique involves removing the diseased pancreas and transplanting healthy islet cells back into the patient, aiming to alleviate pain and preserve endocrine function. Studies indicate that TP-IAT not only significantly reduces patient pain but also enhances insulin independence and improves quality of life. However, improving the survival rate and function of islet cells remains a primary research focus. Additionally, research has shown that the effectiveness of TP-IAT is closely related to factors such as the patient's age and the number of islets, necessitating further in-depth studies (42).

Autologous small intestine transplantation offers unique advantages in treating small intestine diseases and short bowel syndrome. This technique involves resecting the diseased small intestine and reimplanting healthy segments to restore normal small intestine function. Research indicates that autologous small intestine transplantation significantly improves nutrient absorption and reduces dependence on parenteral nutrition. However, the technique is challenging, and managing postoperative complications (such as graft dysfunction and infections) remains an important research direction. In recent years, advancements in surgical techniques and postoperative management have gradually increased the success rate of autologous small intestine transplantation, but further research is needed to optimize surgical protocols and enhance long-term survival rates.

From a national perspective, the United States has made the most significant contributions to research in this field, with the highest number of publications and citations, reflecting its leading position in autologous transplantation research for the digestive system. China, as the second-largest contributor, has seen a significant increase in research in recent years, demonstrating strong development momentum. Notably, a portion of China's research output addresses conditions like hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (HAE) (43), a parasitic disease endemic in certain regions where autologous liver transplantation offers a curative option for complex cases (44). Our analysis identified HAE as a current research hotspot (Cluster 2 in co-cited reference clustering), and Chinese institutions contribute to the literature in this specific area. While a detailed comparative analysis of Sino-US research on HAE is beyond the scope of this bibliometric study, the data suggest China's growing expertise in applying autotransplantation techniques to challenging regional diseases (45).

Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom also have considerable influence in this field, with high publication volumes and citation rates reflecting their important roles in digestive system autologous transplantation research.

From an institutional perspective, the University of Minnesota System and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities are the institutions with the highest number of publications in this field, indicating their significant influence in digestive system autologous transplantation research. Analysis shows that these leading institutions not only have a high number of publications but also a high citation count of their research outcomes, reflecting widespread academic recognition and impact. Collaboration between domestic and international institutions shows that while domestic institutions collaborate closely, cross-national collaborations, especially between China and the United States, play a crucial role in advancing research in this field.

From a journal perspective, the American Journal of Transplantation and Transplantation Proceedings are the journals with the most publications, indicating their important position in digestive system autologous transplantation research. High-impact factor journals have significant authority and influence in this field, with Annals of Surgery and Transplantation being the most co-cited journals, further corroborating their core status in digestive system autologous transplantation research. These journals not only produce a high volume of research but also high-quality studies, representing the forefront and hotspots of this field.

Among all authors who have published literature on digestive system autologous transplantation, Bellin, Melena D., and Freeman, Martin L. are the most prolific. The research outcomes of these high-output authors have significantly contributed to the development of this field. Analysis indicates that these authors not only dominate in terms of publication volume but their research outcomes are also highly cited, reflecting their influence in the academic community. Further analysis of the author collaboration network shows that research in the field of digestive system autologous transplantation is highly collaborative, especially among prolific authors, which helps to advance the depth and breadth of research.

Through keyword analysis, we can identify the main hotspots in digestive system autologous transplantation research, including total pancreatectomy, islet autotransplantation, and chronic pancreatitis. The network diagram of high-frequency keywords shows close associations between different keywords, representing the main research directions and focal points in this field.

The co-occurrence analysis of keywords reveals several major clusters in this field of research: first, studies on autologous transplantation and related treatment methods; second, studies on pancreatic transplantation, its associated complications, and management; third, studies on surgical techniques and clinical outcomes. For instance, Cluster 1 (pink), which includes terms such as “autologous transplantation,” “stem cell,” “angiogenesis,” “regeneration,” “oxidative stress,” “reperfusion injury,” and “inflammation,” points to fundamental biological processes and therapeutic strategies. “Stem cells,” “angiogenesis,” and “regeneration” reflect the ongoing research into enhancing organ repair and functional recovery post-transplantation. Concurrently, keywords like “oxidative stress,” “reperfusion injury,” and “inflammation” underscore critical challenges in transplantation, as these processes can significantly impact graft viability and patient outcomes; research in these areas aims to develop strategies for their mitigation. Cluster 2 (green), featuring “total pancreatectomy,” “pain,” “chronic pancreatitis,” and “quality of life,” directly relates to the primary clinical applications and patient-centered outcomes in pancreatic autotransplantation, particularly for debilitating chronic pancreatitis. Cluster 3 (purple), with keywords like “outcome,” “surgery,” “complication,” “resection,” and “tumor,” encompasses the surgical aspects, oncological indications, and overall results of these complex procedures across different organs. Clusters 4 (yellow) and 5 (yellow), focusing on “TPIAT,” “children,” “insulin independence,” “islet isolation,” and “beta cell function,” highlight the specialized area of islet autotransplantation, especially in pediatric populations and the efforts to preserve endocrine function. These research hotspots reflect the diversity and broad scope of research in digestive system autotransplantation.

Delving deeper into these hotspots, the prominence of total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) for chronic pancreatitis is evident from its frequent appearance in keyword clusters (e.g., Cluster 2 and 4) and its focus in highly co-cited articles. TPIAT is significant because it offers a definitive solution for intractable pain in patients with end-stage chronic pancreatitis, a condition that severely impairs quality of life (46, 47). The simultaneous autotransplantation of islets aims to preserve endocrine function and prevent or mitigate brittle diabetes, a major drawback of total pancreatectomy alone (48). Current research in TPIAT, as suggested by keywords like “islet yield,” “insulin independence,” and “long-term outcome,” focuses on optimizing patient selection, improving islet isolation and engraftment techniques to maximize insulin independence, and understanding long-term metabolic and quality-of-life outcomes, particularly in diverse populations including children. Challenges remain in consistently achieving high islet yields and durable insulin independence, as well as managing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency post-surgery. Opportunities lie in refining islet processing, exploring adjuvant therapies to enhance islet survival (potentially linking to Cluster 1's themes of regeneration and cytoprotection), and standardizing postoperative management protocols.

The strong focus on “islet transplantation” itself, often in the context of TPIAT but also as a broader concept, underscores its critical role. Its significance lies in the potential to transform a life-altering surgery (total pancreatectomy) into a more manageable condition by preserving endocrine function. The challenges revolve around the viability and functionality of transplanted islets, with research opportunities focused on enhancing isolation techniques, improving islet culture and preservation, and finding ways to protect islets from immediate post-transplant loss and ensure long-term survival and function (again, connecting to “beta cells,” “inflammation,” and “oxidative stress” from Cluster 1).

Furthermore, “surgical techniques” and “complications” are consistently highlighted keywords (e.g., Cluster 3). The complexity of digestive system autotransplantation means that refinements in surgical approaches—such as ex vivo resection, vascular reconstruction, and organ preservation—are paramount for success. The significance of advancing these techniques is direct: improved patient safety, reduced operative morbidity, and the ability to tackle increasingly complex cases, such as extensive tumors or severe anatomical distortions. Prominent challenges include managing complex vascular work, minimizing ischemia-reperfusion injury (a key term in Cluster 1), and reducing operative times. Opportunities for advancement include the adoption of minimally invasive techniques where feasible, enhanced intraoperative imaging and navigation, 3D modeling for preoperative planning, and further research into optimal organ preservation solutions (49). The high frequency of “complications” underscores the ongoing need to better understand, prevent, and manage adverse events such as bleeding, infection, thrombosis, and graft dysfunction. This presents opportunities for developing predictive risk models, standardizing perioperative care, and innovating strategies to mitigate common complications, thereby improving overall outcomes and patient recovery.

Further analysis shows that research hotspots vary across different stages. In the early stages, research primarily focused on basic research and initial clinical applications, such as technical improvements in islet transplantation and pancreatectomy and preliminary efficacy evaluations. In the mid-stages, research hotspots gradually shifted to clinical applications and management, such as managing complications post-pancreatic transplantation and improving patients' quality of life. In the later stages, as technology matured and clinical applications deepened, research focus shifted more toward long-term outcomes and large-scale clinical trials, such as long-term survival rates, preservation of islet function, and long-term improvement in patients' quality of life.

Although this study systematically analyzed literature in the field of digestive system autologous transplantation, there are still some limitations. For example, although the WoSCC database is highly authoritative, it may still miss some relevant literature not included in the database. Additionally, bibliometric methods primarily rely on quantitative indicators such as publication volume and citation counts, potentially overlooking some significant qualitative research outcomes.

Reflecting on the dynamism of the field, our analysis of citation bursts (Figure 9) revealed that 12 key references are currently in their peak citation period, suggesting their topics represent active and impactful areas of ongoing research within the last few years. While a comprehensive review of all recent high-impact articles is extensive, these burst references often point toward refinements in surgical techniques, long-term outcome assessments, and management of specific complications.

Future research could further combine qualitative analysis methods to deeply explore the intrinsic logic and development paths of research in digestive system autologous transplantation. Moreover, with the continuous emergence of new technologies and methods, research hotspots and directions in this field may change, necessitating continuous attention to these changes and timely adjustments in research strategies. For instance, future research might need to focus more on personalized treatment plans based on artificial intelligence and big data, as well as the application of new biomaterials and regenerative medicine in autologous transplantation. Additionally, emerging technologies such as 3D printing for surgical planning and the creation of patient-specific anatomical models or guides are beginning to show promise in complex surgeries and could influence future approaches in autotransplantation, although they may not yet be dominant themes in the retrospective bibliometric data up to 2024. The development of advanced imaging and intraoperative navigation systems also continues to enhance surgical precision.

Furthermore, interdisciplinary research and international cooperation will be crucial in advancing this field. By integrating knowledge and technologies from different disciplines and strengthening international collaboration, research outcomes can be accelerated for translation into clinical applications, thereby improving the efficacy of digestive system autologous transplantation and the quality of life for patients.

Our systematic analysis of the literature on autologous transplantation in the digestive system has uncovered the current state of research, key areas of interest, and evolving trends in this field. The findings demonstrate that the United States holds a dominant position, with significant contributions from countries like China. The primary research focuses are pancreatic transplantation, associated treatment methods, and clinical outcomes. To advance this field, future research should prioritize international collaboration and incorporate qualitative analysis techniques to deeply investigate the core aspects and developmental trajectories of related studies. This study not only maps the research landscape of autologous transplantation in the digestive system but also provides valuable references for future research. We hope this study will offer useful insights for researchers, thereby fostering the continued development and progress of autologous transplantation in the digestive system.