Literature visualization analysis of brain-computer interface applications in stroke rehabilitation

doi:10.12307/2026.722

Abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Recent advancements in brain-computer interface technology have demonstrated its clinical efficacy in stroke rehabilitation, yielding substantial therapeutic outcomes. A comprehensive visual analysis is imperative to elucidate current research frontiers and identify emerging hotspots in this rapidly evolving field.
OBJECTIVE: To systematically examine research frontiers and developmental trends in brain-computer interface applications for stroke rehabilitation using bibliometric visualization tools.
METHODS: Based on the Web of Science Core Collection and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases, Citespace 6.4.1, VOSviewer 1.6.20, and Excel 2021 were employed for visualized data analysis of retrieved Chinese and English literature focusing on the application of brain-computer interface technology in post-stroke functional recovery. Using scientometric methods, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the current research status, hot topics, and future trends regarding brain-computer interface technology in stroke rehabilitation.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) A total of 985 Chinese and English articles (879 in English and 106 in Chinese) published between 2003 and 2025 were included. Annual publication output in this field has shown a consistent growth trend both domestically and globally. (2) China, the United States, and Germany were the most productive countries. The University of Tübingen (Germany) ranked as the most influential institution, while Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, topped Chinese institutions in publication output. Frontiers in Neuroscience (Switzerland) was the leading English journal, and the Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine was the foremost Chinese journal. Birbaumer Niels (Germany) had the highest publication output in English, whereas Jia Jie was the most prolific author in Chinese literature. (3) International research focused on theoretical validation and clinical efficacy, with a particular emphasis on upper limb and neural recovery. Domestic studies prioritized technological and systemic optimization, with a focus on exploring broader applications in rehabilitation. (4) “Motor imagery” emerged as a common high-frequency keyword in both Chinese and English literature, with research hotspots focusing on electroencephalography-based and motor imagery-driven brain-computer interface systems. (5) Future trends are likely to include multimodal integration, artificial intelligence fusion, expanded rehabilitation approaches, and strengthened international collaboration.

Key words: brain-computer interface technology, stroke, rehabilitation, bibliometrics, VOSviewer, Citespace, electroencephalogram, motor imagery, virtual reality technology, upper limb functional rehabilitation, artificial intelligence

CLC Number:

Meng Zhuo, Zhao Renghao, Zhang Anqi, Hua Haotian, Wang Zicheng, Xu Yingtian, Tong Peijian. Literature visualization analysis of brain-computer interface applications in stroke rehabilitation[J]. Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research, 2026, 30(18): 4802-4813.

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