Comprehensive Analysis of Global Research on Erectile Dysfunction from 2002 to 2021: A Scientometric Approach

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a multifaceted yet prevalent male-related sexual dysfunction that manifests as a change in any of the erectile response components, including relational, psychological, and biological. We aimed to use bibliometric analyses to determine how ED research has progressed and define the future trends necessary to contribute to scholarly literature. METHODS: Two tools, VOSviewer and MS Excel, were used, and the study was conducted in May 2022. A total of 16,114 records were selected for in-depth analyses. We examined the most eminent authors, highly cited papers within journals, and the institutions that have provided the greatest number of articles regarding ED, and demonstrated that ED research has increased over the last two decades. RESULTS: The total number of research documents published between 1971 and 2021 was 16,114, with a growth rate of 5%. Montorsi, Maggi, and Mulhall shared the top spot in the number of publications (n = 164). The Journal of Sexual Medicine has the most papers (N = 1839), followed by the International Journal of Impotence Research (N = 780), the Journal of Urology (N = 557), and Urology (N = 489). CONCLUSION: The study revealed increased ED research in the past two decades, with notable authors and sources identified. The top three countries contributing to ED are the UK, Italy, and the USA. Recommendations include interdisciplinary collaboration, novel therapeutic approaches, addressing psychological and relational factors, conducting longitudinal studies, and publishing in reputable journals. Implementing these can advance understanding, improve treatment options, and enhance ED management.