Advancing Knowledge on AV Fistula Bleeding: A Bibliometric Analysis of Two Decades of Global Research
Novita Anggraeni (a*) , Saryono (b)

a,b)Department of Nursing, Faculty Of Health Sciences, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Arteriovenous (AV) fistula remains the gold standard for long-term haemodialysis due to its superior patency, reduced infection risk, and durability. However, bleeding complications are common and may cause chronic anaemia, dialysis interruption, and increased hospitalisation. Despite its prevalence, research on AV fistula bleeding is fragmented across disciplines, limiting comprehensive understanding.
Purpose: This study aimed to map the global research landscape on AV fistula bleeding, identify thematic clusters, and highlight emerging trends and research gaps through bibliometric analysis.
Methods: A quantitative bibliometric approach was conducted using Scopus and PubMed databases. Relevant publications from 2000-2025 were retrieved via Publish or Perish software using predefined keywords. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed English articles addressing AV fistula bleeding. Data were analysed using VOSviewer (v1.6.19) to generate density, network, and overlay visualisations, with a minimum term occurrence threshold of five.
Results: Analysis identified four major thematic clusters: (1) clinical complications (e.g., haematoma, vascular complications), (2) diagnostic and interventional strategies (e.g., angiography, embolisation), (3) anatomical considerations (e.g., vein selection, puncture site), and (4) outcome-based evaluations (e.g., patency, quality). Density maps revealed persistent focus on haematoma and vascular complications, while overlay maps indicated a recent shift towards patient-centred outcomes, adverse event monitoring, and methodological rigour.
Conclusion: Over the past two decades, research on AV fistula bleeding has evolved from technical and anatomical considerations to broader patient safety and quality-of-care issues. Future studies should prioritise protocol standardisation, multidisciplinary involvement, patient-reported outcomes, and predictive analytics to enhance prevention and management strategies.

Keywords: Arteriovenous fistula - Bleeding complications- Haemodialysis- Bibliometric analysis- Vascular access

Topic: Nursing Care and Technology Development